Chelsea’s Premier League frustrations continued as a late goal from Jean-Philippe Mateta secured a 1-1 draw for Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. This result extended Chelsea’s winless streak to four games, following a dismal end to 2024 and a faltering start to 2025.
A Promising Start Turns Sour for Chelsea
The Blues began brightly, with Cole Palmer netting his 13th league goal in the 14th minute after a superb assist from Jadon Sancho. Chelsea dominated the first half, creating multiple opportunities through Nicolas Jackson, Moises Caicedo, and Josh Acheampong. However, their inability to convert chances left the game precariously poised.
Crystal Palace’s first notable attempt came in the 35th minute when Jefferson Lerma’s shot was easily gathered by Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez. Despite their dominance, Chelsea nearly paid the price for their wastefulness when Eberechi Eze narrowly missed shortly after the restart.
As the game progressed, Palace grew in confidence, challenging Chelsea’s stuttering defense. Jackson, Pedro Neto, and Enzo Fernandez missed opportunities to seal the win for the visitors, leaving the door open for Palace’s late heroics.
Mateta’s Late Heroics
Palace’s persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when Eze delivered a perfectly timed square pass for Mateta to slot home from close range. The Eagles’ gritty display earned them a valuable point, extending their unbeaten run to three games and lifting them to 15th place in the table.
Palace’s Resilience Shines Through
Crystal Palace’s performance mirrored their inconsistent season. After a lackluster first half, they showed more attacking intent in the second, frequently testing Chelsea’s defense. While scoring remains a challenge for Oliver Glasner’s side—with just 21 goals this season—their ability to stay competitive was evident.
Sitting six points clear of the relegation zone, Palace’s focus will be on finding the consistency needed to climb the table in the new year.
Chelsea’s Title Hopes Fade
Once considered title contenders, Chelsea’s recent slump has seen them slip further behind league leaders Liverpool, who hold a nine-point advantage with a game in hand. Despite boasting the league’s third-best attacking record, Chelsea have managed only two goals in their last four matches.
Missed chances have been a recurring theme for the Blues, with Jackson squandering a hat-trick of opportunities in this match. Their inability to hit the target in the second half ultimately cost them, as Mateta’s late strike punished their inefficiency.
With their title aspirations all but dashed, Chelsea must now focus on securing their top-four position amid mounting pressure from teams below them.
This draw highlights both Palace’s resilience and Chelsea’s growing struggles. While Palace search for consistency, Chelsea must rediscover their cutting edge if they hope to salvage their season.
