Premier League: Chelsea narrowly defeat Everton with Nicolas Jackson's sole goal

London, April 26 (NationPress) Chelsea moved a step closer to UEFA Champions League 2025-26 qualification with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Everton at Stamford Bridge, courtesy of a moment of brilliance from Nicolas Jackson. This win propels the Blues into fourth place in the Premier League standings, firmly keeping them in contention for Europe’s top competition.

Manager Maresca made a solitary change to the lineup that triumphed over Fulham, introducing Romeo Lavia for his first start since January. Lavia partnered in midfield with Fernandez, who captained the team in the absence of Reece James. Moises Caicedo took up the right-back position, while Chalobah and Levi Colwill maintained their central defensive partnership.

In a match with few chances, Chelsea controlled the ball but found it challenging to penetrate a stubborn Everton defense. The breakthrough arrived just after the half-hour mark when Trevoh Chalobah's interception initiated a swift counter-attack; Enzo Fernandez promptly located Jackson at the edge of the box. The striker took two touches before unleashing a stunning shot into the bottom corner, leaving England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford helpless.

Jackson later found the net again, but his second effort was disallowed for offside. Noni Madueke, vibrant throughout the match, also tested Pickford with a couple of impressive saves as Chelsea sought to double their advantage. Despite the narrow lead, the Blues were deserving of the three points, rarely looking vulnerable defensively.

The second half featured Chelsea continuing to search for a second goal, with Madueke coming close and Jackson almost taking advantage of a defensive lapse. However, Everton remained resolute, and Robert Sanchez had to be sharp to thwart Abdoulaye Doucoure with a quick save from distance.

Fresh legs, including the return of Reece James, enabled Chelsea to maintain control as they secured the victory. Despite Everton’s late attempts to rally, Chelsea’s composure and dominance in possession assured them of a crucial three points.

While it wasn’t a classic performance, it was a well-earned victory that could prove vital in the final push for Champions League qualification.

Chelsea currently sits in fourth place in the league with 60 points from 34 matches, having achieved 17 wins and nine draws. They trail Manchester City by one point and are seven points behind second-placed Arsenal (67). Liverpool tops the table with 79 points from 33 games, boasting 24 victories and seven draws.