Liverpool suffered their third consecutive defeat as Estevao Willian’s dramatic late strike handed Chelsea a 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The match seemed to be heading for a draw after Cody Gakpo's equalizer cancelled out Moisés Caicedo’s stunning opener for Chelsea.
However, with the final whistle looming, Estevao netted in stoppage time to secure the win for Chelsea, who had been under pressure after a difficult start to the season.
Liverpool’s early season promise has faded, with shock defeats to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray and now Chelsea.
Despite spending over £400 million in the transfer market, the Reds have struggled to find their rhythm under manager Arne Slot. Their loss meant they dropped from first to second in the Premier League, overtaken by Arsenal.
Chelsea, meanwhile, moved up to sixth after their late heroics. The Blues’ manager Enzo Maresca was relieved by the victory, having been on the brink of a third consecutive league defeat.
Caicedo gave Chelsea the lead with a brilliant long-range strike, but Liverpool responded in the second half when Gakpo converted from close range.
Despite a few chances, Liverpool’s attack lacked sharpness, and Chelsea capitalized in the dying seconds, with Cucurella’s cross met by Estevao for the winner.
The defeat adds further pressure on Liverpool, who will need to regroup quickly to regain form.
SH
