Brighton & Hove Albion made a considerable statement in the Premier League with a 3-0 victory over Chelsea at the Amex Stadium. After defeating the Blues in the FA Cup just days earlier, the Seagulls doubled down with an emphatic win, ending their five-match home winless streak in the league. A stunning strike from Kaoru Mitoma and a clinical brace from Yankuba Minteh ensured Brighton walked away with all three points, leaving Chelsea frustrated and battered.
Valentine’s Day Blues for Chelsea
Despite the romantic occasion, no love was lost between Chelsea and their former Brighton players. Marc Cucurella and Moisés Caicedo faced a hostile reception from the home crowd, with Cucurella being booed every time he touched the ball. Chelsea started the match brightly, with Cole Palmer squandering two early chances, but their night soon turned sour as Brighton took control.
Mitoma’s Magic Opens the Scoring
Japanese sensation Kaoru Mitoma proved his class yet again, producing a moment of brilliance to break the deadlock. Bringing down Bart Verbruggen’s long pass with an exquisite touch, he calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner, sending the Brighton faithful into wild celebrations. Chelsea thought they had equalized through Enzo Fernández’s header, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul in the build-up.
Minteh’s Brace Seals the Deal
Yankuba Minteh capitalized on defensive errors to score twice and put the game beyond Chelsea’s reach. The Gambian forward first reacted swiftly to a loose ball in the box, cutting inside Cucurella before firing home. His second goal came after he outmuscled Levi Colwill, exchanged passes with Danny Welbeck, and saw his shot deflect past Filip Jörgensen. The young forward’s pace and finishing ability tormented Chelsea’s shaky defense all evening.
Chelsea’s Away Woes Continue
This loss extends Chelsea’s dreadful away form, with just two wins from their last eight league matches since Boxing Day. Despite flashes of attacking intent, they lacked cutting edge and struggled to cope with Brighton’s intensity. Even late chances for João Pedro and Mitoma failed to add to the scoreline, but the damage was already done.
What This Means for Brighton and Chelsea
For Brighton, this victory restores confidence as they push for a strong finish to the season. Roberto De Zerbi’s side showed resilience, attacking flair, and defensive solidity, making them a real threat to any top team. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s inconsistencies continue to haunt them, and Mauricio Pochettino must find solutions quickly to salvage their season.
Final Thoughts
Brighton’s second win over Chelsea in just a few days cements their dominance over the London club this season. Mitoma’s brilliance and Minteh’s composure were the game’s highlights, while Chelsea’s struggles raise more questions about their squad and tactics. Kenyan football fans who love the Premier League can take inspiration from Brighton’s fearless approach—a reminder that determination and tactical discipline can triumph over big-name clubs.
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