Brazilian prodigy Estevao scored his first Chelsea goal in dramatic fashion to hand the Blues a 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, dealing the Reds a third consecutive defeatand allowing Arsenal to climb to the top of the Premier League.
After an impressive start that saw Liverpool win their opening seven games in all competitions, manager Arne Slot now faces mounting pressure following a disastrous week. Injury-hit Chelsea, on the other hand, produced a spirited display to end their own three-game winless run.
Moises Caicedo, once a top Liverpool transfer target, opened the scoring with a thunderous strike into the top corner after just 14 minutes. Despite the Reds’ sluggish start, Alexander Isak, the Premier League’s most expensive player at £125 million, set up Cody Gakpo for the equalizer just after the hour mark.
But Chelsea’s determination paid off in stoppage time as Estevao, sliding in at the far post, converted Marc Cucurella’s cross to seal the win. Manager Enzo Maresca celebrated passionately down the touchline, earning himself a red card in the process.
The result leaves Liverpool one point behind Arsenal, while Chelsea move up to sixth in the standings.
Arsenal Go Top But Lose Odegaard Again
In Mikel Arteta’s 300th game in charge, Arsenal comfortably defeated West Ham United 2-0, reaffirming their title ambitions. However, the victory came with concern as captain Martin Odegaardwas forced off injured before halftime, his third injury setback this season.
Despite the setback, Arsenal’s depth once again proved decisive. Declan Rice, facing his former club, smashed in the opener after Eberechi Eze’s shot was saved by Alphonse Areola. Bukayo Saka then doubled the lead from the penalty spot on his 200th Arsenal appearance, after Jurrien Timber was fouled by El Hadji Malick Diouf.
“We dominated and fully deserved to win this,” said Arteta. “To go top of the table after big fixtures and with some injuries… we were able to respond.”
Amorim Gets Breathing Space as United Beat Sunderland
At Old Trafford, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim earned some relief with a 2-0 win over Sunderland, ending a poor run that had seen him collect just 34 points from 33 previous league matches.
“We were a competitive and adult team today,” Amorim said post-match. “We need to perform like this away too — it’s our responsibility.”
Before kickoff, a minute’s silence was observed for the victims of a terror attack on a Manchester synagogue earlier in the week.
United’s bold selection choices paid off as debutant Senne Lammens kept a clean sheet, while Mason Mount marked his return to form with an early strike from Bryan Mbeumo’s cross. Benjamin Seskoadded a second with a clinical finish from a long throw-in — his first goal at Old Trafford since joining from RB Leipzig for £74 million.
Sunderland thought they had a lifeline before VAR overturned a penalty decision for minimal contact between Sesko and Trai Hume.
Tottenham Rise to Third
Elsewhere, Thomas Frank’s Tottenham continued their strong run with a 2-1 win at Leeds United, ending the hosts’ year-long unbeaten home record. Mohammed Kudus struck the decisive goal after Noah Okafor had cancelled out Mathys Tel’s opener.
“That feeling to get over the line, to get three points, was big,” said Frank, as Spurs climbed to third in the table.
What you should know
Chelsea’s teenage sensation Estevao has quickly become the new fan favorite at Stamford Bridge.
His match-winning goal against Liverpool not only showcased his composure but also revived Chelsea’s confidence after a difficult run.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s steady form under Arteta has positioned them as early title frontrunners, while Liverpool’s poor week has exposed vulnerabilities in Arne Slot’s system.
