Credits: IMAGO / Action Plus

Chelsea vs Liverpool: Super Sub Estevao Hands the Reds Third Consecutive Defeat

Credits: IMAGO / Action Plus

Chelsea’s teenage sensation Willian Estevao emerged as the hero at Stamford Bridge on Saturday evening. He scored a dramatic stoppage-time goal to secure a 2-1 win over reigning Premier League champions Liverpool.

The 18-year-old’s decisive strike also handed the Reds their third straight loss in all competitions, further derailing their title defence. Liverpool entered the match knowing Arsenal had overtaken them at the top of the table earlier in the day.

ESTEVAO WINS IT! 😍#CFC | #CHELIV pic.twitter.com/Ej857ey75b
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 4, 2025

Things had worsened for them when Moises Caicedo blasted home a thunderous opener in the 14th minute. The visitors equalised through Cody Gakpo midway into the second half. However, despite an injury-hit squad, Chelsea’s resilience bore fruit.

Enzo Fernández missed a golden chance late on. And it seemed that Liverpool might just escape with a point. However, then in the 95th minute, Marc Cucurella’s low cross found Estevao. The youngster calmly slotted home to send Stamford Bridge into raptures.

Also Read: Thomas Tuchel Names England Squad for October Games: Who Missed and Who Made the Cut?

Chelsea Injury Crisis and Tactical Brilliance

Enzo Maresca’s side achieved the result without several key players. Chelsea were without Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Levi Colwill. Further setbacks struck as Benoît Badiashile and Josh Acheampong limped off during the match. They were battling a defensive crisis.

Even so, captain Reece James partnered 18-year-old Jorrel Hato at centre-back. Maresca was also sent off for celebrating Estevao’s goal. So, he will miss the next game but will relish this win. His decision to introduce Romeo Lavia and Estevao changed the match’s rhythm and turned the match around for them.

Also Read: Sergio Reguilon Set To Join Inter Miami After Tottenham Exit

Liverpool Late-Game Struggles Continue

For Arne Slot, the defeat deepens concerns over his team’s form and balance. Liverpool have now conceded stoppage-time goals in back-to-back league games. This defeat follows the ones to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray earlier in the week. Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz struggled to find cohesion.

Meanwhile, Liverpool’s midfield often left dangerous gaps for Chelsea to exploit. As the Reds prepare to face Manchester United after the international break, Slot must quickly restore confidence and control. For Chelsea, however, Estevao’s breakthrough moment may signal a much-needed turn in their campaign’s momentum.

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Chelsea vs Liverpool

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Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.