In a defining Premier League clash on Sunday, January 25, 2026, Chelsea secured a crucial 3–1 win away at Crystal Palace, thrusting the Blues back into the top four thanks in part to a key penalty from Enzo Fernández — in a match that also saw Palace suffer a red card setback.
🟦 Chelsea Take Early Control
Chelsea found the breakthrough shortly before halftime when teenage sensation Estêvão capitalized on a misplaced Palace back pass, racing past defenders to finish clinically and open the scoring in the 34th minute.
The Blues continued their momentum after the break, with João Pedro doubling the lead in the 50th minute.
The Brazilian forward received a superb pass from Estêvão, cut inside, and drilled the ball past Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
⚽ Controversial Penalty – Fernández Steps Up
With Chelsea leading 2–0 and looking comfortable, the decisive third goal came from the penalty spot just after the hour mark.
A shot from João Pedro was blocked by Palace defender Jaydee Canvot, with a handball judged by VAR to have occurred — a decision that sparked debate but ultimately led to a spot-kick.
Enzo Fernández confidently dispatched the penalty into the bottom corner, extending Chelsea’s advantage to three.
🟥 Wharton’s Red Card Rocks Palace
Crystal Palace’s afternoon went from bad to worse in the 72nd minute when midfielder Adam Wharton was shown a second yellow card for a reckless challenge — reducing the hosts to 10 men and all but ending any hope of a comeback. Palace
Only in the closing stages did Palace find the net, with Chris Richards heading a consolation in the 88th minute after Chelsea failed to fully clear a corner.
However, it proved merely a consolation as Chelsea saw out the game.
📊 What the Result Means
Chelsea leapfrogged rivals to move into fourth place in the Premier League, reinforcing their bid for a Champions League spot.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, extended their winless run to 11 matches across competitions — a stretch that now drags them perilously close to the relegation zone.
⭐ Standout Performers
Estêvão impressed with both a goal and assist, continuing his breakout season at just 18 years old.
João Pedro was central to Chelsea’s attacking threat, combining clinical finishing with creative play. (
Enzo Fernández’s composed penalty sealed the victory, underlining his importance to the side.
