Jean-Philippe Mateta’s Late Goal Extends Chelsea’s Slump

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s late equalizer secured a 1-1 draw for Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, extending Chelsea’s winless Premier League run to four games. The Blues, who ended 2024 with back-to-back losses, carried their struggles into 2025 despite a promising start. Cole Palmer opened the scoring in the 14th minute with his 13th league goal, capitalizing on excellent build-up play by Jadon Sancho. Chelsea dominated the first half but failed to convert their superiority into further goals.

Nicolas Jackson missed three clear chances, while Sancho, Moises Caicedo and Josh Acheampong also failed to find the net. Palace, largely ineffective in the opening period, managed just one effort on target, a tame shot by Jefferson Lerma. The second half saw a more balanced contest with Eberechi Eze narrowly missing an early chance for Palace. Chelsea continued to create opportunities but poor finishing from Jackson, Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez kept the game alive.

Palace capitalized in the 82nd minute when Eze’s precise square ball allowed Mateta to tap home from close range. The result means Palace remain unbeaten in three games, sitting 15th, while Chelsea stay fourth but have failed to win in their last four league matches. For Palace, the performance reflected their season’s inconsistency. A lackluster first half gave way to a spirited second, though their ongoing struggles in front of goal remain a concern.

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s late strike offered hope for better results in 2025 as they fight to steer clear of relegation. Chelsea’s wastefulness proved costly, highlighting their recent struggles. Despite being one of the league’s top scorers overall, they have only managed two goals in their past four games. Now nine points behind leaders Liverpool, Chelsea’s title challenge seems over, shifting their focus to securing a top-four finish.