Abdoulaye Doucoure’s goal and a late strike from young talent Lewis Dobbin sealed a 2-0 triumph for Everton against Chelsea at Goodison Park on Sunday afternoon, propelling the Toffees four points clear of the relegation zone.
Former Watford midfielder Doucoure capitalized on a rebound in the 54th minute, slotting home after Robert Sanchez saved Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s attempt. Chelsea, unable to mount a comeback, suffered their second consecutive defeat and seventh in the Premier League this season, leaving them in 12th place.
Game Overview:
Everton made just one change from their previous victory over Newcastle, introducing James Garner for Seamus Coleman. In contrast, Mauricio Pochettino made multiple changes for Chelsea, with Reece James, Conor Gallagher, Benoit Badiashile, and Armando Broja starting. The match featured traded attacks, with Chelsea appearing more threatening initially. Jordan Pickford made crucial saves, including Enzo Fernandez’s drive and Cole Palmer’s long-range effort.
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Despite Jack Harrison’s close attempt for Everton, the first half saw possession-oriented play from Chelsea, marred by injuries leading to the substitution of both right-backs. Reece James exited with a suspected hamstring issue, and Ashley Young was forced off due to the pace of Mykhailo Mudryk.
The game’s dynamics changed when Doucoure capitalized on an opening created by Dwight McNeil, putting Everton ahead. Chelsea’s second-half efforts were thwarted by Everton’s solid defense, leaving them unable to produce quality chances. Instead, Everton secured their victory in added time, as Lewis Dobbin converted a corner, adding a fresh spark to Everton’s season and compounding Chelsea and Pochettino’s disappointment with another unfavorable result.