Cole Palmer made history with a stunning four-goal haul in the first half as Chelsea secured a thrilling victory over Brighton at Stamford Bridge.
In a chaotic match, all six goals were netted in the opening 45 minutes, with Brighton benefiting from two costly mistakes by Chelsea’s former goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez.
Brighton took an early lead just seven minutes into the game, capitalizing on an error from Sanchez.
The Chelsea shot-stopper misjudged a cross during a defensive mix-up, allowing Georginio Rutter to beat him to the ball and nod home his first goal for Brighton.
However, the Seagulls’ advantage was short-lived as Palmer swiftly took control of the match, punishing Brighton’s vulnerable high defensive line.
After an earlier attempt hit the post and a goal was ruled out, Palmer finally got on the scoresheet in the 21st minute.
Nicolas Jackson played a crucial role, setting up Palmer, who calmly slotted the ball past the defense following a lapse in Brighton’s backline.
Within 10 minutes, Palmer had completed a remarkable hat-trick. His second came from the penalty spot after Jadon Sancho was fouled inside the box.
Minutes later, he produced a sublime curling free-kick, adding a third to his tally just after the half-hour mark.
Despite Palmer’s brilliance, Chelsea’s hold on the game was tested when Sanchez’s error gifted Brighton another opportunity.
A miscue from the goalkeeper allowed Carlos Baleba to pull one back for the visitors, briefly reigniting hope for the Seagulls.
However, any momentum Brighton gained was short-lived, as their own goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen, made a similar mistake at the other end.
Palmer seized the opportunity, pouncing on the error to score his fourth goal and further extend Chelsea’s lead.
The second half couldn’t quite match the wild pace of the first, though chances continued to flow for both teams.
Despite Brighton’s efforts to salvage their unbeaten start to the season, Chelsea held firm to claim a memorable victory, propelling them into the Premier League’s top four.
Brighton’s impressive run came to an end, while Chelsea celebrated a performance that will long be remembered for Palmer’s dazzling display in front of the home crowd.
