Chelsea secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Everton at Stamford Bridge, returning to winning ways and climbing back into the Premier League's top four. This much-needed result came after a challenging period where Enzo Maresca's side had collected only two points from their previous three domestic fixtures and faced a recent Champions League defeat. Despite Everton's strong run of form, with four wins from five matches, and a spirited performance that saw them dominate large portions of the first half, Chelsea managed to capitalize on key moments.

The first half saw both of Chelsea's goals come against the run of play. England manager Thomas Tuchel was reportedly watching as Cole Palmer opened the scoring in the 20th minute, calmly drilling home after an astute pass from Malo Gusto. Despite Everton arguably deserving parity, France defender Gusto then doubled the hosts' lead just before halftime, prodding in to cap a fine move spearheaded by Pedro Neto. Everton had missed crucial opportunities, including James Tarkowski heading wide from a corner, which proved costly.

Chelsea started the second half with renewed vigor and could have extended their lead, but Everton's resistance gradually waned. Although the visitors' Jack Grealish passed up an inviting opportunity with 20 minutes remaining and Iliman Ndiaye struck a post late on, Chelsea comfortably maintained their advantage to resume their top-four challenge. The Blues effectively stifled their opponents, cruising to three crucial points, which significantly boosted their aspirations.

Positives from the match included arresting the recent winless run. Cole Palmer's return to form and goals was a significant boost, while Pedro Neto continued his fine season. Reece James's versatility in midfield effectively compensated for the absence of the suspended Moisés Caicedo. Negatively, Chelsea was fortunate that Everton was wasteful at times, an issue also seen with winger Alejandro Garnacho. João Pedro's quiet afternoon also raised concerns about Chelsea's attacking focal point, especially with Liam Delap sidelined.

Manager Enzo Maresca earned a rating of 7 out of 10 for guiding his side back to winning ways at a key juncture. His personnel changes were central to the outcome, with the returning Malo Gusto contributing both a goal and an assist, and Palmer's deployment helping the hosts gain an early foothold. Once 2-0 up, Maresca ensured his side managed the game comfortably.

Player Ratings:

• GK Robert Sánchez, 7: Delivered a welcome return to form, making two key interventions in the first half and denying Thierno Barry and Grealish.
• DF Malo Gusto, 8: An impactful return to the starting XI, providing an assist for Palmer and scoring his second goal for the club.
• DF Wesley Fofana, 7: Recovered from injury, communicated well with the backline, and made important interceptions.
• DF Trevoh Chalobah, 7: Looked sharp and communicative, effectively managed the physical threat of opposition forwards, and made a key late block.
• DF Marc Cucurella, 6: Started sharply and handled defensive duties on his flank, but had a generally quiet game.
• MF Reece James, 7: Dependable in midfield, provided his customary threat from set-piece delivery, and nearly scored from a free-kick.
• MF Enzo Fernández, 7: Overcame a somewhat sloppy first period to grow in stature, delivering a sublime cross for a missed Garnacho chance.
• FW Pedro Neto, 8: Played a key role in the second goal with his pace and generally tormented Vitalii Mykolenko throughout the match.
• FW Cole Palmer, 8: Underlined his worth with a brilliant opening goal, delivering a neat and eye-catching performance.
• FW Alejandro Garnacho, 6: Started on the front foot but his desperation contributed to spurning an open goal; defensive work was mixed.
• FW João Pedro, 6: Another largely quiet afternoon, dropping deep to link play but looking increasingly frustrated.

Substitutes included Andrey Santos (6), Jamie Gittens (6), and Estêvão (N/R) who had little time to impact the proceedings.