Christopher Nkunku Secures Chelsea’s 1-0 Win

Christopher Nkunku scored a late goal to secure a 1-0 away win for Chelsea at Bournemouth in a Premier League match that set a record for the most yellow cards in a game with 14 handed out. Despite Bournemouth creating numerous chances, including a missed penalty by £40m signing Evanilson and efforts from Marcus Tavernier and Ryan Christie hitting the woodwork, Chelsea’s defense held strong.

Nkunku then capitalized on a through-ball from debutant Jadon Sancho to score the decisive goal. The match was fiercely contested, with referee Anthony Taylor issuing six yellow cards to Bournemouth and eight to Chelsea, surpassing the previous record of 12 cards set in matches between Chelsea and Tottenham in 2016 and Wolves and Newcastle in 2010.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca downplayed the record, stating, “It is what it is. Sometimes the game demands the way you have to behave.” Chelsea’s win elevates them to seventh place in the Premier League standings. They will face West Ham next Saturday while Bournemouth currently in 11th will travel to Liverpool on the same day.

Bournemouth began the game with high energy, reminiscent of their dramatic late comeback against Everton in their previous match. Tavernier hit the crossbar early on and the Cherries dominated possession with some effective attacking play. Despite having 19 shots and seven on target, they struggled to convert their chances into goals. Chelsea on the other hand had a mixed performance.

They were often disjointed in their build-up play and wasteful in front of goal. Christopher Nkunku late strike was crucial, particularly after Nicolas Jackson missed a one-on-one chance earlier.  The introduction of Jadon Sancho at halftime proved pivotal as his creativity led to the winning goal.