Chelsea handed reigning Premier League champions Liverpool their third consecutive defeat on Saturday, as Brazilian youngster Estevao Willian struck a dramatic stoppage-time winner in a thrilling 2–1 victory at Stamford Bridge.
The result marked another setback for Arne Slot’s struggling side, who have now suffered unexpected losses to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray, and Chelsea after starting the season with seven straight wins in all competitions.
The Blues went ahead in the 14th minute through Moses Caicedo, after Liverpool carelessly lost possession near midfield. The versatile Chelsea Midfielder pounced on the loose ball, surged forward unchallenged and unleashed a thunderous shot from the edge of the box that flew into the top corner, this strike make his third goal of the campaign. This moment for Liverpool and their fans highlighted why the team had once battled to sign the Ecuadorian before he chose Stamford Bridge in 2023.
Liverpool lacking their usual rhythm, struggled to create clear chances for much of the first half. Alejandro Garnacho came close to doubling Chelsea’s lead when his curling effort brushed the outside of the post.
Tempers flared just before the interval when Dominik Szoboszlai shoved Garnacho in the area, prompting furious protests from Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who was shown a yellow card.
Slot introduced Florian Wirtz after halftime in a bid to energize his attacking side, the change nearly paid off when Wirtz set up Mohamed Salah inside the box, but the Egyptian fired wide
Liverpool eventually found their equaliser in the 67th minute when Cody Gakpo reacted quickest to flick home from close range after a low cross from Szoboszlai caught Chelsea’s reshuffled defence flat-footed.
Chelsea, meanwhile already battling several defensive injuries, lost Josh Acheampong late in the game but refused to fold. Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili produced fine saves to keep out Jamie Gittens and Estevao, while Enzo Fernandez saw his header crash against the post.
The pressure finally told in stoppage time. Marc Cucurella sent in a teasing low cross and Estevao stretched to guide the ball past Mamardashvili from a tight angle, sparking wild celebrations at Stamford Bridge.
A jubilant Maresca sprinted down the touchline to celebrate with his players, earning a red card for his exuberance.
For Liverpool, this defeat sees drop them to second place, a point behind Arsenal who beat West Ham earlier in the day. Despite reinforcing their squad with over £400 million on summer signings, Slot’s men have looked a shadow of the team that stormed to the title last season.
For Chelsea, the dramatic victory lifts them to sixth in the table and provides a timely boost for Enzo Maresca, who had been under pressure following two straight league defeats.
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