In a decisive Premier League encounter on Friday, February 14, 2025, Brighton & Hove Albion delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over Chelsea at the Amex Stadium. This result not only marked Chelsea’s heaviest defeat under manager Enzo Maresca but also underscored Brighton’s tactical prowess and attacking efficiency.
Brighton set the tone early, with Kaoru Mitoma opening the scoring in the first half. Mitoma’s goal was a standout moment, showcasing exceptional skill and composure, earning him the player of the match accolade. Jamie Carragher, serving as a pundit for Sky Sports, lauded the Japanese winger’s performance, describing the goal as “one of the most memorable the Premier League has seen.”
The Seagulls maintained their momentum throughout the match, with Yankuba Minteh adding a brace to seal the victory. Chelsea, despite enjoying the majority of possession, struggled to convert their control into meaningful opportunities, managing only one shot on target. Their defensive vulnerabilities were evident, leading to a performance that left fans and analysts questioning the team’s direction.
The Blues’ challenges were compounded by an early injury to winger Noni Madueke, who was forced off the pitch with a suspected hamstring issue just 19 minutes into the game. This development further strained Chelsea’s attacking options, already depleted due to injuries and suspensions. Fans voiced their frustration, criticizing the club’s management for perceived shortcomings in squad depth and transfer strategies.
Post-match, manager Enzo Maresca expressed his disappointment, acknowledging the team’s lackluster performance and the need for immediate improvements. He emphasized the importance of regrouping and addressing both tactical and mental aspects ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
This defeat places Chelsea’s position in the top four under scrutiny, especially with rivals poised to capitalize on any further slip-ups.
