Joao Pedro Shines as Chelsea Beat Fulham 2-0 in Premier League | OneFootball

Chelsea Overcome Fulham with 2-0 Victory

Chelsea recorded a 2-0 win over Fulham at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League, but the match will be remembered as much for the officiating as the goals.

Striker Joao Pedro continued his fine run of form, heading home in first-half injury time to score his fifth goal in five starts since his £55 million move from Brighton. Enzo Fernandez doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the second half, ensuring Chelsea secured three points before the international break.

However, referee Robert Jones and VAR official Michael Salisbury found themselves at the centre of heated debate after several controversial calls went Chelsea’s way.

Fulham Denied by VAR

Fulham thought they had taken the lead in the 21st minute when Josh King’s strike hit the net, but after VAR intervention, the goal was disallowed. Salisbury judged that Rodrigo Muniz had fouled Trevoh Chalobah in the build-up, a decision confirmed by Jones after reviewing the pitchside monitor.

The challenge looked minimal, with Muniz simply using his body to shield the ball. It felt a natural action for a striker playing with his back to goal, yet the referee deemed it enough to rule out Fulham’s opener.

Photo: IMAGO

Chelsea, under pressure throughout the first half, made the visitors pay when Joao Pedro rose highest to head in Fernandez’s corner on the stroke of half-time.

Fernandez Penalty Seals Result

Fulham’s frustration deepened after the break. Ryan Sessegnon was adjudged to have handled inside the penalty area, giving Fernandez the chance to make it 2-0.

It was another contentious call, one that left Marco Silva incensed on the touchline. Fernandez made no mistake from the spot, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to confirm Chelsea’s victory.

Chelsea’s afternoon was not without its setbacks, as Liam Delap was forced off early with a hamstring injury. Yet the team showed enough composure to see out the match, even if the officiating clouded much of the contest.

Importance of Three Points

For Chelsea, this 2-0 Premier League win over Fulham provides welcome momentum heading into the international break. Joao Pedro’s goalscoring streak continues to justify his hefty transfer fee, while Fernandez’s composure under pressure highlighted his influence in midfield.

Fulham, however, will feel aggrieved. They dominated much of the first half and were denied by tight calls that fell consistently against them. For Marco Silva’s side, this was a performance of control and intensity without the reward.

Chelsea will celebrate the three points, but the controversies ensure this fixture will be debated long after the final whistle.