Chelsea ease past Everton with clinical first half display at Stamford Bridge

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Chelsea produced a composed and commanding performance to secure a 2–0 victory over Everton in their Premier League Round 16 clash on Saturday, sealing the result before half-time and expertly managing the contest thereafter.

The Blues struck twice in a dominant opening period, with Cole Palmer and Malo Gusto finding the net, as Mauricio Pochettino’s side combined fluid attacking play with defensive discipline to shut out a spirited but wasteful Everton team.

Chelsea took control early, dictating possession and pinning Everton deep with sharp passing and constant movement.

Their pressure paid off in the 21st minute when Malo Gusto slipped a clever pass into the box for Palmer, who showed composure from close range to slot past Jordan Pickford and give the hosts a deserved lead.

Everton attempted to respond through Iliman Ndiaye and Jack Grealish, both of whom saw efforts blocked or comfortably handled by Robert Sanchez, but the visitors struggled to convert promising build-up play into clear-cut chances.

Just as Everton sought to regroup, Chelsea struck again on the stroke of half-time. Pedro Neto picked out Gusto with vision and precision, and the right-back capped an outstanding half by firing a first-time shot into the bottom corner to double the advantage at 2–0.

The second half saw Everton play with greater urgency, creating moments of danger without finding a breakthrough. Jack Grealish tested Sanchez with a powerful header, while Ndiaye came agonisingly close in the 87th minute, his fierce strike crashing against the post.

Chelsea, however, remained largely untroubled. Sanchez made key interceptions, the defence stood firm under pressure, and the midfield absorbed Everton’s late surge with calm authority. Substitutes Jamie Gittens and Andrey Santos added energy and control as the hosts saw out the closing stages.

Despite Everton’s late push, including a flurry of corners and blocked efforts inside the box, Chelsea’s organisation ensured there was no route back for David Moyes’ side.