FROM STAMFORD BRIDGE – Chelsea secured their first Premier League win of 2025 with a 3-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night.
The Blues were dominant throughout, taking the lead midway through the first half with a goal from Tosin Adarabioyo. However, a mistake by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez allowed Wolves to equalize just before halftime through Matt Doherty. In the second half, goals from Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke sealed the win for Chelsea, lifting them above Manchester City and back into the Premier League’s top four.
How the Game Unfolded
Enzo Maresca described managing Chelsea in January as a “disaster” due to the constant transfer speculation, and the team’s form had only added to the pressure, with no wins in their previous five league matches. However, Chelsea started brightly, quickly shaking off the memory of their poor run. Cole Palmer’s creativity was evident, and both wingers had the beating of Wolves’ full-backs. Marc Cucurella’s energetic play also stood out.
Chelsea’s breakthrough came from a Wolves error. A miscommunication between Matt Doherty and goalkeeper Jose Sa nearly resulted in an own goal. The visitors scrambled to clear, but a corner led to Chelsea’s opener. Reece James’ deflected shot fell kindly to Tosin Adarabioyo, who scored his second goal in as many games, making it 1-0 in the 24th minute.
Wolves responded in the dying seconds of the first half. Robert Sanchez fumbled a corner from Matheus Cunha, and Doherty capitalized on the mistake, equalizing with a sharp finish.
The Blues regrouped during the break and came out for the second half with a renewed focus. Cucurella put Chelsea back in front on the hour mark, finishing off a quick passing move with a shot into the far corner. Less than five minutes later, Chelsea doubled their lead. Trevoh Chalobah’s header from a free-kick was nodded over the line by Madueke, making it 3-1.
Chelsea eased off in the final stages, allowing Wolves a glimmer of hope, but the Blues ultimately secured a much-needed win. The result puts further pressure on Wolves, who are only above the relegation zone on goal difference.
3 Key Takeaways
- Chelsea’s Defensive Resurgence: The Blues benefitted from a rare showing of defensive efficiency, with all three goals coming from defenders. Adarabioyo, Cucurella, and Madueke’s goals provided a much-needed boost for a team that has struggled with consistency at the back this season.
- Wolves’ Relegation Battle Continues: Despite an equalizer, Wolves’ defensive errors and inability to handle Chelsea’s pressure ultimately cost them. They are still in a relegation battle, sitting above the drop zone only on goal difference.
- Chelsea’s Momentum Shift: This victory was crucial for Chelsea’s confidence and top-four aspirations. They now return to winning ways, and this performance could mark the beginning of a positive run in the second half of the season.
