In an action-packed pre-season friendly, Chelsea showcased their might with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brighton Hove Albion. The match, held in Philadelphia as part of the Premier League Summer Series, treated fans to an enthralling display of football prowess.
The game saw new sensations Mykhailo Mudryk and Nicholas Jackson making a striking impact, scoring their maiden goals for Chelsea. Christopher Nkunku and Connor Gallagher continued their impressive form, building on their recent 5-0 success against Wrexham AFC.
Brighton got off to a strong start with Danny Welbeck’s 13th-minute goal, but Chelsea quickly retaliated with Nkunku’s equalizer just six minutes later. With the score level at 1-1 during halftime, anticipation built for a riveting second half filled with goals.
A turning point came 15 minutes into the second half when Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke received a double yellow card, reducing the Seagulls to 10 men. Mudryk’s moment of brilliance arrived in the 65th minute when he connected flawlessly with Jackson, unleashing a powerful long-range shot that soared past Brighton’s goalkeeper, marking his maiden goal for Chelsea.
Jackson’s impact continued to shine as he assisted Gallagher’s goal in the 72nd minute, extending Chelsea’s lead to 3-1. In a testament to his versatility, Jackson swiftly transitioned from provider to scorer, netting Chelsea’s fourth goal just four minutes later.
Though Brighton mounted a spirited comeback, with Joao Pedro converting a penalty in the 79th minute and Deniz Undav adding a late strike, time proved their ultimate foe. Chelsea emerged victorious, clinching a thrilling 4-3 win that further cements their competitive history with Brighton.
Under the guidance of manager Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea’s remarkable offensive display leaves football enthusiasts eager for their upcoming challenges in the English Premier League. This pre-season victory is a testament to the team’s progress from the previous season, where they finished 12th in the league with 44 points from 38 matches, comprising 11 wins, 11 draws, and 16 losses. With their relentless pursuit of excellence, Chelsea continues to captivate football fans worldwide.