Chelsea delivered a dominant performance with a 4-0 victory over Southampton, moving into the Premier League’s top four while Aston Villa suffered a significant setback in their Champions League aspirations after a 4-1 defeat against Crystal Palace. This emphatic win was just Chelsea’s third in their last eleven league games and provided a much-needed boost after three consecutive defeats.
The Blues took charge early, scoring three first-half goals through Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, and Levi Colwill. Nkunku, who has struggled for game time in the league due to injuries, opened the scoring by heading in a corner at the back post. The French forward then assisted Neto, who powered home Chelsea’s second. Colwill secured a comfortable lead before halftime, heading in Neto’s free-kick. Marc Cucurella rounded off the scoring with a composed finish from a Tyrique George cross.
Before kick-off at Stamford Bridge, a small group of Chelsea fans protested against the club’s owners, expressing discontent over poor form and rising ticket prices. However, Enzo Maresca’s side responded in style with a clinical display that could help restore confidence in the squad.
“We needed that, the fans needed that, and the club needed that, so we are happy,” said Maresca post-match. “The priority is to bring this club to where it should be – the Champions League. The season will be up and down, but we need to stay ready.”
Chelsea’s victory saw them leapfrog Manchester City into fourth place. Due to English clubs’ strong performance in European competitions, a top-five Premier League finish is expected to be sufficient for Champions League qualification next season.
Eagles Soaring as Villa Stumble
Aston Villa had rekindled their hopes of Champions League football after defeating Chelsea in their previous match, but their momentum was halted abruptly at Selhurst Park. Unai Emery’s side has now won just one of their last seven league matches after a disappointing collapse against Crystal Palace.
“After today, with a loss, it is difficult to try to explain everything,” admitted Emery. “We have to move on and stay motivated for the FA Cup, the Champions League, and to maintain balance in the Premier League.”
Ismaila Sarr opened the scoring for Palace in the first half, but Morgan Rogers equalized early in the second period. However, Palace quickly regained control as Jean-Philippe Mateta restored their lead before Sarr and Eddie Nketiah secured a convincing victory. Oliver Glasner’s side has now won seven of their last nine games, climbing to 12th place, just six points behind Villa in 10th.
Battle for European Spots Intensifies
Brighton claimed bragging rights in the south coast derby with a crucial 2-1 win over Bournemouth, strengthening their push for European qualification. Joao Pedro converted an early penalty to give the Seagulls the lead, but Bournemouth responded with a stunning equalizer from Justin Kluivert. However, Danny Welbeck netted the winner to move Brighton level on points with Bournemouth.
Bournemouth remains seventh on goal difference, with Brighton in eighth, both now just one point behind fifth-placed Manchester City.
Wolves missed a chance to distance themselves further from the relegation zone after a 2-1 home defeat to Fulham. A lightning-fast start saw Ryan Sessegnon score inside the first minute for Fulham, and Rodrigo Muniz restored their lead just two minutes into the second half after Wolves had briefly equalized. Wolves remain five points clear of the bottom three but will need to improve to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle.
Title Race Heats Up
At the top of the table, league leaders Liverpool are preparing to take another step toward their second Premier League title in 35 years when they host Newcastle on Wednesday. With only a few matches remaining, every point counts in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the season.