September 27, (THEWILL) – Chelsea earned some respite from their difficult start to the season under Mauricio Pochettino as Nicolas Jackson’s second-half goal gave them a 1-0 win against Brighton and Hove Albion in the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Roberto De Zerbi’s high-flying visitors dominated possession for much of the match but home fans witnessed their side put on an effective counter-attacking display at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues had gone three games without scoring, but that run ended when Jackson struck just six minutes into the second half after being set up by Cole Palmer, planting a composed finish into the corner to beat Brighton keeper, Bart Verbruggen, and ease his struggles in front of goal.
Pochettino made five changes from the side beaten by Aston Villa on Sunday, with Palmer brought in for his first start. The former Manchester City forward began in an advanced three alongside Mykhailo Mudryk and Ian Maatsen, but was at his most effective when dropping deep, seeking out key final-third passes that have eluded Chelsea.
Despite Brighton enjoying the lion’s share of possession, Chelsea took their chance when it came and held on for a vital cup win to hand Pochettino some breathing room as he seeks to turn around their difficult league campaign.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
