Chelsea secured a 2-0 victory over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday, overcoming the setback of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s injury. Pedro Neto scored both goals for Chelsea, delivering a first Premier League brace that condemned Everton to their opening defeat of the season.
The decisive moment came just after halftime, with Neto opening the scoring within seconds of the restart. Despite suffering a serious head injury during a collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, Martinez’s efforts were integral until he was forced to leave the pitch for medical treatment and subsequent hospitalization. The Argentina international was involved in a heavy clash that prompted lengthy on-field attention and led to his replacement by 21-year-old Mike Penders, who made his Premier League debut. Penders helped Chelsea secure a clean sheet, marking the club’s first shutout in league play since January, ending a 22-game sequence without one.
Speaking after the match, Neto expressed well wishes for Martinez and praised the team’s defensive performance. “We are really pleased. Shame for Emi but we wish you all the best. This win is for him,” Neto said. “We need a clean sheet, to be honest. I think we did a very good game. Emi deserved this, Mike did as well.”
The victory lifted Chelsea above Everton into the Premier League’s top four. The first half was marked by a brisk tempo but few clear chances. Everton’s midfielder Harrison Armstrong received one of five first-half yellow cards following a late tackle on Chelsea’s Josh Achaempong. This incident energized the home fans and sparked Everton’s most promising period, although the visitors carried the threat on the counterattack.
Chelsea had their first significant scoring opportunity just before halftime, when Moises Caicedo’s powerful shot came off the woodwork. Everton was frustrated by a controversial non-second booking for Morgan Rogers, who was involved in a tough challenge with teammate James Garner.
Shortly after the break, Chelsea quickly capitalized through Neto as Jorrel Hato’s low cross found the winger, who calmly slotted the ball past Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Despite Everton controlling portions of the second half, their attack was limited, particularly with forward options depleted.
Chelsea sealed their win late in the match when Neto added a second goal, striking a precise shot into the bottom corner after a free kick from Jordan Henderson was partially blocked by the Everton wall. Neto credited his finish to advice from Portugal’s new national team coach Jorge Jesus, highlighting the emphasis on taking shots in the penalty area.
Overall, Chelsea’s performance was notable not only for the result but also for their resilience in overcoming the loss of their starting goalkeeper. Everton’s first defeat suggests early vulnerabilities to address as the season progresses.