Chelsea began the Xabi Alonso era with an entertaining 3–2 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage on Monday evening.
João Pedro opened the scoring after just 31 seconds, finishing from Cole Palmer’s pass and producing the fastest goal of the opening round in Premier League history. Fulham responded through Josh King in the 23rd minute after Robert Sánchez’s mistake. Chelsea regained the lead when Morgan Rogers scored on his debut in the 41st minute to give them a halftime lead.
Cole Palmer then extended Chelsea’s advantage in the 49th minute, with João Pedro providing the assist after beating Leno in the near post. Fulham reduced the deficit through debutant Gonzalo García five minutes later, setting up a tense finish. Robert Sanchez pulled off a fine save in the last minute to deny Rodyrgo Munoz and give Xabi Alonso’s side the three points.
Speaking after the game, Xabi Alonso insisted he was happy with the win. “We know how tough it is to win any Premier League game, and any away Premier League game. We prepared for an intense game, and I feel it was a very professional, solid performance, showing maturity and managing the difficult moments.” He said.
