Chelsea returned to the Premier League’s top four with an ultimately comfortable win over struggling Wolves.
Enzo Maresca’s side had gone five league games without a win but took the lead when VAR awarded an effort to Tosin Adarabioyo initially ruled offside.
Chelsea then went into their shell and Wolves looked the better side for a period, capitalizing on first-half delays when Matt Doherty headed in from a corner following a mistake by Robert Sanchez.
Marc Cucurella puts Chelsea ahead again! 💫 pic.twitter.com/2aWb8gculH
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025
But the hosts were much improved in the second half – although far from their best – and Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke scored in quick succession.
The win moves Chelsea above Newcastle and Manchester City and leaves Wolves just above the relegation zone on goal difference.
Chelsea take advantage of Wolves’ Achilles heel
Wolves have now conceded 19 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season – by far the worst record of any team.
Twice their weakness was shown at Stamford Bridge. First, a half-time clear corner was taken by captain Rhys James and Tosin controlled well before scoring his first league goal for Chelsea.
The flag was raised but Matheus Cunha was late to clear his area and the former Fulham man was right there.
Noni Madueke loves scoring against Wolves! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/RXOICqc95Y
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025
That mistake was nothing compared to what Sanchez did at the end of the half, though, flicking a Cunha corner at the feet of Doherty who couldn’t miss from yards out.
It was Sanchez’s fourth error leading to a goal this season – only Ipswich’s Arijanet Muric (5) has made more.
Chelsea’s second goal was the pick of the night, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall making a good run on his first league start for Chelsea and he whipped in a cross that Cucurella chested down and slotted home.
And minutes later, Trevoh Chalaboh rose well to meet Cole Palmer’s free-kick and head down, with Madueke handling just on the line.
Chalobah impressed in his first start since being recalled by Crystal Palace, but it remains to be seen where his long-term future lies.
Wolves faded badly in the second half and need to find points soon to keep their heads above water. They face Arsenal on Saturday.
