Crystal Palace 1-3 Chelsea: Estevao and Pedro shine as Blues move into top four | OneFootball

Chelsea extended their strong start under Liam Rosenior with a controlled 3–1 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace, inspired by an outstanding display from Estevao.

The result maintained Rosenior’s unbeaten league record since his appointment and lifted his side further into contention near the top end of the table.

It was also a damaging afternoon for Crystal Palace, whose growing concerns were compounded by defeat, indiscipline and familiar defensive errors.

Estevao set the tone with a performance that blended composure, sharpness and decisive quality.

The teenager opened the scoring in the first half after capitalising on a costly mistake from Jaydee Canvot.

The Palace defender underhit a back-pass, allowing Estevao to race clear and finish confidently past Dean Henderson.

The goal rewarded Chelsea’s brighter moments in an otherwise even opening period.

Crystal Palace had earlier threatened when Jean-Philippe Mateta was sent through on goal, only to be denied by Robert Sanchez.

That missed opportunity proved costly as the visitors grew into the contest.

Chelsea were without Cole Palmer due to a minor thigh issue, but his absence was barely felt.

Estevao assumed creative responsibility seamlessly and continued to trouble Palace throughout.

The second goal arrived shortly after the restart and again bore his imprint.

After dispossessing Mateta, Trevoh Chalobah fed Joao Pedro, who exchanged passes with Estêvão before turning Adam Wharton and finishing clinically.

The strike gave Chelsea control and visibly deflated the home side.

Palace’s afternoon deteriorated further when a penalty was awarded against Canvot after João Pedro’s shot struck his arm.

Enzo Fernandez converted calmly from the spot to extend the lead.

Any lingering hope of a recovery faded moments later when Adam Wharton was sent off after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession.

The dismissal underlined Palace’s growing lack of composure during a difficult spell.

Chris Richards headed a late consolation, but it did little to alter the balance of the contest.

For Chelsea, the victory reinforced the early signs of cohesion under Rosenior.

They have now recorded consecutive league wins for the first time in several months.

The performance also highlighted the depth emerging within the squad, particularly in attacking areas.

Estevao’s influence was decisive, earning a standing ovation when he was withdrawn late on.

Crystal Palace, by contrast, were left reflecting on another setback during a turbulent period.

They are now without a win in 11 matches in all competitions.

Defensive lapses, missed chances and disciplinary issues again proved costly.

With testing fixtures ahead, pressure continues to build on Oliver Glasner’s side.

Chelsea, meanwhile, depart with momentum, confidence and further evidence that Rosenior’s reign is beginning to take shape.