Stamford Bridge Shake-Up: Sunderland's Last-Gasp Strike Breaks Chelsea's Home Fortress

Overview

Chelsea were stunned as Sunderland struck late to win 2-1 at Stamford Bridge in a Premier League matchday nine clash. The home side failed to impose their usual rhythm and were punished by dangerous counter-attacks, especially in the dying minutes.

Manager Enzo Maresca admitted the display was not good enough and warned that poor performances in the league can have harsh consequences. He highlighted a lack of intensity and creative spark, insisting Chelsea must improve to climb the table.

Maresca said the team was not good enough across the game and that failing to perform in the Premier League can carry serious repercussions. He cited the second goal coming from a long ball they failed to defend, and the first from a throw-in with several opponents in the box, illustrating a fragile way to concede.

He emphasised the need for 100% effort from every player and acknowledged eight points dropped from winning situations at home this season, calling that unacceptable. He added that the squad must be better in future matches.

Creativity and chances

On Chelsea's attacking play, Maresca said the team lacked creativity and created few clear chances apart from their goal. Even when ahead 1-0, they gave away too many balls and failed to win second balls. He insisted the squad must show more determination and maintain performance across games.

He recalled the win at Liverpool earlier in the season as a benchmark for the level they should aim for, noting that four consecutive wins show potential but that this game demanded more consistency and execution.

Regarding crosses into the box, Maresca explained that deliveries often target multiple players in the penalty area, but the quality today was not good enough. Still, he pointed out that Chelsea typically score from crosses, and today just wasn't their day.

He also addressed Joao Pedro's ongoing goal drought, explaining that the Brazilian forward is managing a minor injury and that several players are dealing with issues. He added that the squad is trying to contribute despite these problems.

Lessons from the defeat

Defender Trevoh Chalobah told Sky Sports the match was tough and that Chelsea were targeted to disrupt their playing style. He said there were chances in the first half and more in the second, but focus faded late. He emphasised that the performance was not the team's best, but that it is a game from which they can learn.

Chalobah noted there are many games ahead due to the Champions League schedule, but dismissed that as an excuse. The team must show resilience and consistency to win the games they expect to win.

In the closing stages, Sunderland’s Shams Din Talbi struck in the 90+3 minute to seal victory, giving his side a win that put Chelsea's home record under scrutiny. The Moroccan forward's late goal highlighted Sunderland's plan to strike quickly when opportunities arise.

Wilson Isidor, who opened the scoring for Sunderland, described the goal as a team effort built on preparation and patience. He highlighted the presence of Nordi Mukiele and the value of long throws into the box, stressing that he must be in the right place as the number nine. He also commented on Sunderland’s character and belief in the club's crest.

Isidor also commented on Sunderland's position near the top of the table, saying that while second place is nice, the season isn't over and they must stay focused.

Sunderland's momentum continued as they collected 17 points from their first nine league games, the best tally for a promoted club since Hull City in 2008/2009. They also extended a London unbeaten run to 14 matches, the longest in their history in the capital. Talbi's goal marked the third of his Sunderland career away from home in the Premier League, a notable milestone for the side.

Chelsea's failure to capitalize on a lead left them with a record of dropped points after taking a lead at home this season, with six points lost in such situations. The Blues will look to regroup and restore consistency going forward.

If Chelsea's defense were a magician, their best trick would be making a lead disappear before kickoff. If football is comedy, Sunderland delivered the punchline at the final whistle.