Estevao’s stoppage-time winner seals third straight defeat for Liverpool | OneFootball

Chelsea snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge as 18-year-old Estevao Willian struck deep into stoppage time to hand the champions their third consecutive defeat in all competitions and reignite the Blues’ faltering league campaign.

It was the kind of moment that could define both sides’ trajectories this season — Estevao’s calm finish bringing Stamford Bridge to life and condemning Liverpool to a defeat that felt as symbolic as it was costly.

For Chelsea, it was a statement that their season still has direction. For Liverpool, it was an evening that once again exposed a creeping uncertainty under Arne Slot.

Moises Caicedo opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a thunderous effort from distance, punishing Liverpool’s passive defending.

The Ecuadorian, often criticised for inconsistency since his record-breaking move, delivered his most commanding display of the campaign, controlling the midfield alongside Enzo Fernandez and Malo Gusto.

His goal was a reminder of the dynamism that convinced Chelsea to invest so heavily in him — power, precision and purpose rolled into one.

Liverpool did find an equaliser through Cody Gakpo midway through the second half, reacting quickly after Alexander Isak’s mis-hit turned into a fortunate assist. Yet the goal never truly shifted the momentum.

The champions remained tentative, lacking rhythm and conviction. Mohamed Salah cut a frustrated figure, while Virgil van Dijk was often isolated as Chelsea continued to press with intent.

Enzo Maresca’s side, despite missing several first-team defenders, played with maturity and energy. Their youthful back line stood up to pressure, and when Maresca introduced Estevao and Jamie Gittens late on, the move transformed the game.

Estevao immediately troubled Liverpool’s tiring full-backs and ultimately found the decisive touch, sliding in ahead of Andy Robertson to convert Marc Cucurella’s cross in stoppage time.

Maresca’s subsequent red card for sprinting down the touchline in celebration summed up the emotion of the evening. The Italian may have to watch from the stands next time out, but few at Stamford Bridge will mind.

This was a win that felt restorative — not just for the points it secured but for the belief it reignited.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are now facing questions about their balance, sharpness and confidence. Two straight league defeats, both decided in stoppage time, suggest the aura of invincibility has waned.

Arsenal’s win earlier in the day pushed them top, but Chelsea’s spirited victory ensures they may soon have more company in the title conversation.