Chelsea Bounce Back in Style with Dominant Victory Over Struggling Southampton

Chelsea secured a resounding 4-0 win in the Premier League against a struggling Southampton, continuing their impressive run with 12 victories from their last 15 matches against teams sitting at the bottom of the table (D2, L1).

Following a 2-1 triumph over Ipswich Town in their previous league outing, Southampton aimed to achieve back-to-back away wins in the Premier League for the first time since June 2020.

Despite Chelsea’s underwhelming form, the Saints perhaps saw a glimmer of hope, but by half-time, the game was effectively beyond their reach.

Enzo Fernandez provided Cole Palmer with two opportunities; however, Palmer misdirected his first attempt and then struck directly at Aaron Ramsdale, extending his Premier League goal drought to seven matches.

Fortunately for Chelsea, they broke the deadlock from a corner when a header from Tosin Adarabioyo fell perfectly for Christopher Nkunku to slot home at the back post.

At the opposite end, Filip Jorgensen made a crucial save, denying Paul Onuachu’s header during a rare attacking moment for Southampton.

Moments later, Chelsea doubled their lead through Pedro Neto, who capitalised on an underlapping run to score past Ramsdale.

With the momentum firmly with them, Chelsea netted a third goal before the interval. Neto played a crucial role again by delivering a set-piece that Levi Colwill turned into his first goal of the season as a birthday gift.

After the break, Chelsea continued to dominate, but the finishing touch eluded them as several chances went begging.

Fernandez was involved again, setting up Nkunku, whose header failed to hit the target.

Palmer’s struggles in front of goal persisted as he sent a bouncing ball over the crossbar, while Jadon Sancho’s clever turn opened up a chance for Neto, who unfortunately mishandled in a promising situation.

Eventually, the home side sealed their emphatic victory with a fourth goal 12 minutes from time.

A rapid counter-attack led to substitute Tyrique George squaring the ball for Marc Cucurella, who finished off the move with a shot into the net.

The late introduction of 17-year-old Shim Mheuka added to Chelsea’s joy on a successful evening, enabling them to leap back into the top four, at least temporarily.

Having conceded nine goals to Chelsea in their two Premier League clashes this season, Southampton will be relieved to finally see the back of them.

While their goal difference took another hit, it’s unlikely to change their fortunes as Ivan Juric’s squad remains firmly anchored to the bottom of the table, sitting on just nine points—13 away from safety.