Cole Palmer Ends Goal Drought as Chelsea Defeat Liverpool 3-1 at Stamford Bridge

London, May 4, 2025 — Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer ended his 18-game goal drought in dramatic fashion, converting a stoppage-time penalty to seal a 3-1 win over newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. The victory marks Chelsea’s fourth consecutive league win and significantly boosts their hopes for a top-five finish and Champions League qualification.

Palmer’s All-Round Influence

Palmer, who had not scored since January 14, was central to all three Chelsea goals. He set up Enzo Fernandez for an early opener before his incisive play led to a bizarre own-goal by Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah. With Liverpool pressing late, Virgil van Dijk pulled a goal back, but Palmer’s composure from the spot in added time restored Chelsea’s two-goal cushion and ended his personal scoring drought that had stretched over four months.

How the Match Unfolded

• First Half: Chelsea started brightly, with Palmer assisting Fernandez for the first goal.
• Second Half: Palmer’s pressure forced Quansah into an own-goal, doubling Chelsea’s lead. Liverpool responded through van Dijk, but Chelsea remained resilient.
• Stoppage Time: Moises Caicedo was fouled in the box, and Palmer stepped up to confidently dispatch the penalty, sending Stamford Bridge into celebration.

Post-Match Reactions

Palmer addressed criticism he received during his goal drought, dismissing social media detractors as “idiots” and emphasizing his mental resilience. “Social media nowadays is full of idiots. I don’t pay no attention to that. I’ve scored today and I’m happy, but it’s only one and I’ve got to keep improving and try and reach new levels,” Palmer told Sky Sports after the match.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised Palmer’s impact, saying the young midfielder “can do what no one expects,” and lauded his ability to deliver under pressure.

Champions League Race Heats Up

The win brings Chelsea level on points with fourth-placed Newcastle, intensifying the battle for Champions League spots as the season nears its conclusion. Palmer’s return to form could prove decisive in Chelsea’s push for European football next season.

Key Stats

• Palmer’s penalty was his first goal in 18 matches across all competitions.
• He now has 15 Premier League goals this season, following a 22-goal debut campaign with Chelsea last year.

Quote

“Getting chances and not scoring, it feels like you’re letting your team down. I feel like I am mentally strong anyway. I feel pride in helping the team and if I’m not doing that, I’m not happy.” — Cole Palmer

Chelsea’s resurgence, led by Palmer’s timely return to scoring form, sets up a thrilling finish to the Premier League season as the Blues aim to secure a Champions League berth.