Enzo Fernandez scored the opening goal as Chelsea defeated Premier League champions Liverpool 3-1 Sunday at Stamford Bridge. The result aids Chelsea's push for a Champions League qualification spot.
Fernandez, also wearing the captain's armband for Chelsea in the match, struck in the fourth minute. The goal came after a counter-attack involving Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto, with Neto providing the assist from the penalty spot area.
Liverpool, having secured the Premier League title the previous week, made six changes to their starting lineup. Manager Arne Slot rested several regulars, including Luis DÃaz, Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai.
Chelsea doubled their lead in the second half when a clearance attempt by Virgil Van Dijk deflected off his teammate Jarell Quansah and into the net.
Virgil Van Dijk pulled one back for Liverpool in the 85th minute, heading home from a corner kick to narrow the deficit.
However, Cole Palmer secured the win for Chelsea in stoppage time, converting a penalty after Moisés Caicedo drew a foul inside the area.
Other players featuring in the match included Robert Sánchez in goal for Chelsea and Alisson for Liverpool. Moisés Caicedo and Romeo Lavia played in midfield for the home side, while Harvey Elliott, Curtis Jones, and Wataru Endo started for Liverpool.
Chelsea's next matches include a Conference League semifinal second leg and crucial Premier League fixtures against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest, both rivals for European spots. Liverpool faces Arsenal, Brighton, and Crystal Palace to finish their league season.
