Chelsea vs Ham was a fiery London derby that saw the Blues overturn a deficit to secure a 2-1 victory. The win propelled Chelsea back into the Premier League’s top four, bouncing back from last week’s defeat to Manchester City.
Graham Potter returned to Stamford Bridge for the first time since his sacking nearly two years ago. However, his West Ham side failed to hold onto their lead and left without any points. Tensions ran high throughout the match, but Enzo Maresca made key tactical changes to turn the tide in Chelsea’s favor.
Three points at the Bridge! 😁#CFC | #CHEWHU pic.twitter.com/8URo8GLddp
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 3, 2025
West Ham struck first just before half-time. Levi Colwill’s poor back pass was seized by Jarrod Bowen, who calmly slotted past Filip Jorgensen. Chelsea had a chance to equalize before the break, but Alphonse Areola stretched to tip Cole Palmer’s 25-yard free-kick over the bar. The Blues struggled in attack during the first half, failing to create clear-cut chances.
Chelsea found their equalizer shortly after the hour mark. Pedro Neto’s dangerous cross created chaos in West Ham’s defense, and the ball eventually fell to him again at the far post. The Portuguese winger made no mistake, smashing it into the net. A lengthy VAR check followed to determine if Marc Guiu had glanced the ball to an offside Marc Cucurella, but the goal stood.
The hosts completed their comeback with under 20 minutes remaining. Palmer, who had been quiet for most of the game, burst past Tomas Soucek and attempted a low cross. However, Aaron Wan-Bissaka inadvertently clipped the ball, looping it over Areola into his own net. The goal sent Stamford Bridge into celebrations as Chelsea took control.
West Ham pushed for a late equalizer, with seven minutes of added time giving them hope. The visitors launched a swift counterattack in stoppage time, and Mohammed Kudus found space inside the box. His close-range strike seemed destined for goal, but Tosin Adarabioyo made a crucial block to deny him. That proved to be West Ham’s final chance as Chelsea held firm.
Maresca’s tactical adjustments ensured Chelsea claimed all three points despite a slow start. The win was crucial in keeping their top-four ambitions alive. Meanwhile, Potter’s return ended in disappointment as his side failed to capitalize on their early lead.
Chelsea vs Ham delivered drama, controversy, and a crucial comeback, making it a night to remember at Stamford Bridge.
