The 2-1 win meant Chelsea extended their unbeaten streak to 13 games over Crystal Palace despite recording their 59th conceded goal n 2023; the most by the club since participating in the EPL.

Stamford Bridge witnessed a clash of former club prodigies, with goals from both sides.

Michael Olise punished his former club Chelsea but it was substitute Noni Madueke, a rejected Palace academy player, who stole the show with a VAR-awarded penalty in the 89th minute, caused ironically by Olise.

The 2-1 victory extended Chelsea’s unbeaten streak against Crystal Palace to 13 games, despite conceding their 59th goal of 2023, the most in the club’s Premier League history.

The hosts struck first in the 13th minute through Mykhaylo Mudryk, tapping in Malo Gusto’s cross.

However, Olise equalized for Palace just before halftime.

Tactical twists and VAR drama

Following their Christmas Eve defeat to Wolves, Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino made five changes, including a first start for stand-in captain Conor Gallagher since his red card against Brighton in December.

Despite Chelsea fielding the youngest-ever Premier League starting XI (23 years, 21 days) since 2017, the game was a rollercoaster of tactical adjustments and VAR interventions.

Early possession for Palace threatened, but Chelsea’s Mudryk countered, leading to a close miss from Maatsen.