Nicolas Jackson ends goal drought to get win for Chelsea

Nicolas Jackson was the hero at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon, scoring the only goal as Chelsea defeated Everton 1-0 in a crucial Premier League encounter. The Senegalese striker ended a 132-day wait for a Premier League goal, helping the Blues strengthen their position in the battle for a Champions League spot.

Chelsea controls early play without clear chances

With manager Enzo Maresca serving a suspension and watching from the stands, Chelsea started the match with clear intent but struggled to create major opportunities in the opening minutes. Wide players Pedro Neto and Noni Madueke were frequently involved as Chelsea aimed to hurt Everton through individual brilliance on the flanks. Despite their dominance, the breakthrough came not from a solo effort but from a clinical counterattack. After a turnover just past midfield, Enzo Fernández quickly released Jackson, who turned sharply and unleashed a powerful, low strike into the bottom left corner from twenty meters out. It was Jackson’s first Premier League goal since December 15, a welcome moment for a player who had faced heavy criticism in recent weeks.

Defensive solidity and key saves secure vital win

Following Jackson’s opener, Chelsea remained largely in control, restricting Everton to few meaningful chances. The Toffees’ early flurry of substitutions by the 65th minute reflected their growing frustration and inability to break through Chelsea’s defensive organization. Noni Madueke came close to doubling the lead fifteen minutes before full time, but Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford produced a stunning save to deny the former PSV winger. As the clock wound down, Everton mounted a late surge. Manager David Moyes pushed his team forward in search of an equalizer, but Chelsea’s defense, anchored by Robert Sánchez in goal, stood firm. Sánchez made several crucial saves, most notably a superb stop from Dwight McNeil’s close-range attempt following a cross by Carlos Alcaraz.

Chelsea tightens grip on top four

Thanks to the win, Chelsea moved into a Champions League qualification position. However, the margins remain razor-thin in the race, with Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, and Aston Villa all within a few points of each other from third to seventh place. For Chelsea, the victory over Everton offers more than just three points — it restores confidence in Jackson and the team as a whole. With the final stretch of the season underway, Maresca’s side will need to continue grinding out results if they are to secure their return to Europe’s top competition. Everton, meanwhile, will need to quickly regroup as they continue their fight to stay clear of the relegation battle.