Chelsea moved back into the top four of the Premier League with an extremely comfortable win over weak Wolves.
Enzo Maresca’s side had gone five league games without a win but took the lead when Tosin Adarabioyo’s shot was initially ruled offside by VAR.
Chelsea then went into their shell and Wolves looked the better side for a period, taking advantage in first-half stoppage time when Matt Doherty headed home from a corner following a mistake by Roberto Sanchez.
Marc Cucurella returns Chelsea to the lead! 💫 pic.twitter.com/2aWb8gculH
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025
But the hosts were much better in the second half – although still far from their best – with Marc Cucurella and Noni Madueke scoring in quick succession.
The win takes Chelsea above Newcastle and Manchester City and leaves Wolves just above the relegation zone on goal difference.
Chelsea exploited Wolves’ Achilles heel
Wolves have now conceded 19 set goals this season in the Premier League – by far the worst of any team.
Twice their weakness showed at Stamford Bridge. First, captain Reece James headed home a half-struck corner and Tosin was able to control before curling in his first league goal for Chelsea.
The flag was up but Matheus Cunha was slow to clear his area and the former Fulham player was just inside.
Noni Madueke loves to score against Wolves! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/RXOICqc95Y
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 20, 2025
That error was nothing compared to the one Sanchez managed at the end of the half, spilling Cunha’s corner into the feet of Doherty who couldn’t miss from yards out.
It was the fourth mistake Sanchez made before scoring this season – only Ipswich’s Arijanet Murić (5) made more.
Chelsea’s second goal was the pick of the night, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall making a fine run on his first league start for Chelsea to curl in a cross that Cucurella chested and pushed into.
And moments later Trevoh Chalaboh rose well to meet Cole Palmer’s free-kick and head down, Madueke safe on the line.
Chalobah impressed in his first start since being recalled from Crystal Palace, but it remains to be seen where his long-term future lies.
Wolves faltered badly in the second half and need to find points soon to keep their heads above water. They face Arsenal on Saturday.
