Chelsea held by 10-man Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge

Noni Madueke’s equaliser salvaged some extent for Chelsea in a 1-1 draw towards Nottingham Forest, who performed the final 12 minutes with 10 males after James Ward-Prowse’s purple card. The outcome marked the top of the Blues’ five-match profitable streak on Sunday at Stamford Bridge.

Chris Wooden gave Forest the lead early within the second half, however Madueke responded to stage the rating. Regardless of Chelsea’s numerical benefit, they didn’t discover a profitable objective.

Enzo Maresca’s facet, beforehand buoyed by three straight league wins and 5 total, faces a setback however stays fourth within the Premier League forward of the worldwide break. Maresca acknowledges that whereas Chelsea isn’t but competing with title contenders like Manchester Metropolis and Arsenal, they’re positioning themselves as severe contenders for a top-four end.

In a bid to reinforce matchday expertise, Chelsea allowed gamers to decide on songs performed over the stadium tannoy, with choices together with Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and Future’s “Too Quick.” Nonetheless, the group’s efficiency was largely out of sync on the sector.

Chelsea was practically caught off guard early, with Robert Sanchez saving a strong shot from Murillo. The Blues lastly challenged Forest keeper Matz Sels simply earlier than halftime, however Sels denied makes an attempt from Madueke and Enzo Fernandez.

The second half started poorly for Chelsea as Wooden scored from shut vary. The Blues fought again with Madueke’s spectacular end within the 57th minute however missed additional alternatives, together with a obtrusive miss from Jadon Sancho’s help.

Ward-Prowse’s sending-off supplied Chelsea an opportunity to capitalize, however they struggled to interrupt by way of. Sels made essential saves to maintain Forest within the recreation, whereas Sanchez thwarted makes an attempt from Neco Williams and Christopher Nkunku, leaving Chelsea pissed off because the match led to a draw.