In a pulsating London derby at Craven Cottage, Chelsea staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat Fulham 2-1, reigniting their UEFA Champions League qualification hopes. Substitute Pedro Neto struck a thunderous 93rd-minute winner, capping a thrilling finale that saw 19-year-old Tyrique George net his first Premier League goal to spark the revival.
Fulham dominated early, with Alex Iwobi breaking the deadlock in the 20th minute. Capitalizing on a Reece James error, Ryan Sessegnon intercepted a loose pass and squared to Iwobi, who coolly slotted home from the edge of the box.
The hosts pressed relentlessly, but Chelsea’s halftime substitutions shifted momentum. George, introduced in the 78th minute, leveled the score five minutes later with a fierce 20-yard strike into the bottom corner.
Just as the game seemed headed for a draw, Enzo Fernández teed up Neto in stoppage time, and the winger unleashed a rocket into the roof of the net to seal three vital points.
The victory propels Chelsea to fifth place (57 points), level with Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest, who have a game in hand. Crucially, the Premier League has secured an extra Champions League spot for next season, meaning fifth place could secure entry to Europe’s elite competition.
For Fulham, the defeat leaves them ninth (48 points), their European ambitions fading despite a spirited display.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised his team’s resilience: “The character to fight back shows our growth. Tyrique’s goal was special, and Pedro’s strike—what a moment!” He also expressed concern over Malo Gusto’s late injury.
Fulham’s Marco Silva lamented missed opportunities: “We controlled 70 minutes but lacked focus in key moments. These fine margins cost us”.
Chelsea host Everton next, aiming to solidify their top-five push, while Fulham face Bournemouth. With the Champions League race tighter than ever, every point could define seasons 212. For now, Chelsea’s late heroics have reignited belief—and left Craven Cottage stunned.
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