Match Overview

In an electrifying clash at the London Stadium, Chelsea triumphed over local rivals West Ham United with a convincing 3-0 victory, showcasing the team's growing synergy under new head coach Enzo Maresca. This marked Chelsea's third consecutive away win, suggesting that Maresca's tactics are beginning to resonate with his expansive squad.

Nicolas Jackson's Stellar Display

Nicolas Jackson emerged as the standout star, netting two goals that exemplified West Ham's defensive frailties. He opened his account in the fourth minute, seizing on a lapse in the West Ham defense. Swiftly sprinting down the flank, Jackson cut inside without opposition and unleashed a precise low shot past goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.

Just 14 minutes later, he doubled Chelsea's lead, once again finding space unchallenged as he received a pass from Moisés Caicedo. Jackson's lethal form continued into the second half when, less than two minutes after the restart, he set up Cole Palmer for Chelsea's third goal from the edge of the box—igniting an onslaught that left West Ham reeling.

Chelsea's Recent Form

Chelsea has been on a remarkable run recently, following a 1-0 victory against Bournemouth and a staggering 6-2 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in August. This victory propelled them into second place in the Premier League, ahead of other weekend matches.

Maresca's Coaching Approach

Enzo Maresca joins a line of four permanent coaches under Chelsea's American ownership since they acquired the club two years ago. Critics had questioned his ability to forge a coherent unit amidst a whirlwind of summer signings. However, at the London Stadium, he demonstrated flexibility by giving first starts to both Jadon Sancho and Tosin Adarabioyo, along with deploying Wesley Fofana—typically a center-back—in an unfamiliar right-back position due to injuries sidelining Reece James and Malo Gusto.

West Ham's Struggles

Despite the tactical adjustments, Chelsea seamlessly exploited West Ham's transition under their new coach Julen Lopetegui. Maresca downplayed any notion of a revival, even as he became the first coach in Premier League history to win his first three away games since Pep Guardiola did so with Manchester City in 2016. "We are improving in many areas, although there's still room for better attacking and defending. Managing the game is essential, but overall, we deserved the win," Maresca stated in the post-match conference.

Supporter Frustrations

Meanwhile, frustrations among West Ham supporters were palpable. Boos echoed from the stands at half-time and again when Lopetegui opted to replace winger Crysencio Summerville—who had injected energy into the Hammers' attack—with Michail Antonio later in the match. West Ham's performance was lackluster, and a penalty claim was dismissed after Summerville fell following contact with Fofana, but it did little to threaten Chelsea's keeper Robert Sánchez throughout the match.

Outlook for Both Teams

West Ham's struggles continued as they secured only one victory in their opening five league games. Captain Jarrod Bowen reflected on the disheartening display, "We were never in the game—it's painful to admit. The goals we conceded were essentially gifts. We must remain alert at all times; on the pitch, it felt effortless for them to break through our lines—a truly disappointing performance."

As Chelsea celebrates their rejuvenated form, West Ham faces crucial questions about their direction, with a challenging season ahead. The football world is watching—can Chelsea maintain this momentum, and will West Ham find a way to rise from their struggles? Stay tuned!