Chelsea keep momentum rolling with calm 2-0 win 

Chelsea kept up the pressure at the top of the Premier League with a hard-earned 2-0 victory over Burnley at a freezing Turf Moor on Saturday.

Pedro Neto struck late in the first half, while Enzo Fernandez wrapped it up near the end, giving Enzo Maresca’s men a win that lifts them to second place, three points behind leaders Arsenal ahead of Sunday’s North London derby.

The result continues Chelsea’s impressive run, eight wins in their last ten matches in all competitions — on a day that also marked Maresca’s 50th Premier League game in charge.

It also sets the Blues up for a demanding week, with Barcelona visiting Stamford Bridge in the Champions League on Tuesday, followed by Arsenal in a high-stakes league clash on November 30.

Chelsea could temporarily slip back to third place if Manchester City avoid defeat against Newcastle later on Saturday, but the victory in Lancashire keeps their title momentum intact.

Maresca admitted it was a tough outing. “It’s always a hard game here, especially after the international break with a 12:30 kick-off,” he said. “The way we competed, I’m very happy. They had only one real chance. It was important to keep the momentum from before the break.”

Burnley, meanwhile, remain deep in trouble. The defeat their fifth in seven league games leaves them hovering just above the relegation zone with little sign of improvement.

Chelsea had to navigate the match without Cole Palmer, who suffered a fractured toe after stubbing it on a door, delaying his comeback from a groin injury. Maresca also kept Moises Caicedo on the bench due to fatigue after a long international trip.

In the early minutes, Chelsea had a brief scare when goalkeeper Robert Sanchez mis-kicked the ball into Fernandez’s head, forcing a quick concussion check. The Argentine continued and would later have the final say.

The lead arrived in the 37th minute from a well-worked move. Marc Cucurella controlled a high ball in the area before nudging it to Jamie Gittens, whose floated cross to the far post found Neto. The Portuguese forward met it with a firm diving header for his fourth goal of the season.

Chelsea pushed for more after the break, with Delap forcing a save and Neto rattling the post from a tight angle. Burnley’s best chance fell to Zian Flemming, who snatched at a loose ball inside the area and fired over.

The home side’s hopes faded completely in the 88th minute when Marc Guiu squared for Fernandez, who arrived unmarked for a composed finish to seal the points.

With two major fixtures ahead, Chelsea’s win keeps them firmly in the title conversation — and sends a clear warning that Maresca’s side have no intention of easing off.