Chelsea edges Bournemouth in fiery contest

In a tense and hard-fought match, Chelsea managed to secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Bournemouth, handing the Cherries their first defeat of the Premier League season. Two substitutes came to Chelsea’s rescue on the south coast, but the game will be remembered for more than just the result, as it set a Premier League record with an astonishing 14 yellow cards.

Bournemouth's strong start

Bournemouth, unbeaten in their first three Premier League matches, posed a tough challenge for Chelsea. The Cherries had started the season with two draws against Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United, followed by a victory over Everton. On Saturday, they welcomed a Chelsea side under new manager Enzo Maresca, who is still finding his footing with the Blues.

Despite Chelsea’s recent six-goal outburst against Wolverhampton Wanderers before the international break, they struggled to find their rhythm against Bournemouth. The home side had the upper hand for much of the game, and it looked like they would capitalize on a mistake by Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana. Fofana’s poor back pass forced goalkeeper Robert Sánchez into a desperate challenge on Evanilson, Bournemouth's new striker, leading to a penalty.

Sánchez denies Evanilson

Evanilson, who was brought in to replace the departed Dominic Solanke, stepped up to take the spot-kick, hoping to open his Bournemouth account. However, Sánchez guessed correctly, diving to the same side as the Brazilian's shot and making a crucial save to keep the game level. The Chelsea goalkeeper’s save was a lifeline for the Blues, and his roar of celebration echoed his relief.

Chelsea, needing a spark, turned to Jadon Sancho at the start of the second half. The winger, on loan from Manchester United, replaced the ineffective Pedro Neto. Sancho’s introduction brought a much-needed energy to Chelsea’s attack, but despite their best efforts, the visitors continued to struggle in front of goal.

Nkunku breaks Bournemouth’s resistance

Just when it seemed like Bournemouth would extend their unbeaten start, Chelsea finally found a breakthrough. In the 85th minute, substitute Christopher Nkunku made the difference. After receiving a pass from Sancho, the French forward weaved his way through three Bournemouth defenders and slotted the ball into the far corner, breaking the deadlock and securing Chelsea's vital 1-0 win.

A record-breaking feisty encounter

While Nkunku’s late goal stole the headlines, the match also made Premier League history for another reason. Referee Anthony Taylor dished out a record 14 yellow cards over the 90 minutes, an unprecedented figure in English football’s top flight. Players from both sides were regularly penalized for rough challenges, dissent, and time-wasting. To top it off, both managers were shown yellow cards as tensions ran high on the touchline.

Chelsea’s rise in the Premier League

The hard-earned victory lifts Chelsea above Bournemouth and into the upper half of the Premier League table. Despite a lackluster performance, the win represents progress for Enzo Maresca’s side, who will be hoping to build on this momentum as they continue their season. For Bournemouth, the defeat ends their unbeaten run, but they can take heart from their strong showing against one of the league's traditional heavyweights. In a match filled with drama, controversy, and a record number of yellow cards, Chelsea left the Vitality Stadium with three points, while Bournemouth will look to bounce back in their next outing.