Chelsea returned to the top four in the Premier League with an eventual comfortable win over strugglers Wolverhampton.
Coach Enzo Maresca's team played five league matches without a win, but took the lead when the video assistant referee ruled Tosin Adarabioyo's goal, which was originally ruled out for offside.
Chelsea then went into their shell and Wolves looked to be the better team for a while, taking advantage of first-half stoppage time when Matt Doherty charged in from a corner after a foul by Robert Sanchez.
Mark Cucurella brings Chelsea back to the top! 💫 pic.twitter.com/2aWb8gculH
– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025
But the home team improved much in the second half – albeit still far from their best – with Mark Cucurella and Noni Madueke scoring back-to-back goals.
The win takes Chelsea above Newcastle and Manchester City and leaves Wolves just above the relegation zone on goal difference.
Chelsea exploits Wolverhampton's Achilles heel
Wolves have now conceded 19 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League this season, the worst ever record for any team.
Their weakness was demonstrated twice at Stamford Bridge. Firstly, skipper Reece James hit back a corner kick that was cleared in the half and Tosin did well to control before side-footing a shot for his first league goal for Chelsea.
The flag was raised but Matheus Cunha was slow to clear his area and the former Fulham player was inside.
Noni Madueke loves scoring against Wolverhampton! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/RXOICqc95Y
– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025
This error was nothing compared to the one Sanchez made at the end of the first half, sending a corner kick as it was at the feet of Doherty who was unable to miss from a few yards out.
It was Sanchez's fourth error resulting in a goal this season, with only Ipswich's Arjanette Muric committing more (5).
Chelsea's second goal was the pick of the night, as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall made a good run on his first league start for Chelsea and crossed the ball which Cucurella chested and slotted home.
Moments later, Trevo Challabaugh rose well to meet Cole Palmer's free kick and head home, and Madueke made sure he was on the goal line.
Chalupa impressed in his first match since his recall from 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 the points soon to keep their heads above water. They will face Arsenal on Saturday.
