Chelsea were denied victory at the Gtech Community Stadium after Brentford grabbed a dramatic injury-time equaliser, cancelling out fine goals from Moises Caicedo and the returning Cole Palmer.
The home side went ahead against the run of play in the first half when Kevin Schade’s shot deflected past Robert Sanchez. Chelsea responded strongly after the break, with Enzo Maresca’s substitutions changing the game.
Palmer, back after missing two matches through injury, levelled the score midway through the second half, finishing calmly from close range after Joao Pedro had kept the attack alive. Then, with five minutes remaining, Caicedo unleashed a stunning strike from outside the box that flew into the top corner, seemingly sealing all three points for the Blues.
However, Brentford struck late in added time. A loose ball bounced across the Chelsea area and substitute Fabio Carvalho was on hand at the back post to smash home the equaliser, leaving the match tied at 2-2.
Team News
New signing Facundo Buonanotte made his Chelsea debut following a loan move from Brighton, joining Pedro Neto and Jamie Gittens in attack behind striker Joao Pedro. In midfield, Enzo Fernandez captained the side alongside Caicedo. At the back, Jorrel Hato started for the first time, while Wesley Fofana returned from injury.
How the Match Unfolded
Chelsea controlled possession early on, with Buonanotte showing promise and Pedro testing the Brentford defence. Despite the Blues’ dominance, it was Brentford who took the lead when Schade’s effort deflected off Tosin Adarabioyo and wrong-footed Sanchez.
Chelsea pressed for an equaliser before half-time, with Fernandez striking the post direct from a corner, but they went into the break trailing.
Maresca made changes at the interval, bringing on Marc Cucurella, Tyrique George and Reece James, and later Palmer. The pressure paid off as Palmer equalised with a sharp finish before Caicedo’s thunderous strike looked to have won it.
Brentford, however, refused to give up, and Carvalho’s stoppage-time goal earned them a share of the spoils.
What’s Next
Chelsea now turn their attention to Europe, travelling to Germany for a UEFA Champions League clash with Bayern Munich on Wednesday night. They return to Premier League action next Saturday with another big away game against Manchester United.