Interim Chelsea boss Frank Lampard experienced a disappointing return to the Premier League (PL), as his side failed to break down a determined Wolverhampton Wanderers team at Molineux Stadium.
Chelsea’s lack of cutting edge has been heavily criticized, and that trend persisted from the start. The first half-hour saw little action, with Wolves matching the Blues stride for stride. Matheus Nunes broke the deadlock with a stylish goal, striking a partially-cleared bouncing ball firmly into the top corner. Diego Costa, facing his former team, nearly doubled Wolves’ lead, but Kepa Arrizabalaga denied his close-range effort.
Chelsea increased the pressure after the break, seeking an equalizer. João Félix, the Blues’ recent standout performer, was at the center of a penalty appeal that referee Peter Bankes dismissed. Wolves looked to capitalize on their lead with counterattacks, but Matheus Cunha’s promising break came to nothing. Lampard made several changes, but Chelsea’s 13 shots yielded no clear goal-scoring chances.
Julen Lopetegui’s Wolves maintained their discipline, securing a pivotal victory that lifts them to 12th in the PL and four points clear of the relegation zone. Chelsea, on the other hand, fell short once again, remaining mired in midtable obscurity.
Matheus Nunes was named Man of the Match for his match-winning contribution to Wolves’ crucial victory.
