Chelsea enjoyed a 3-2 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday, and they impressively did it with 10 men. The Blues had gone five home games without a win before facing the Seagulls but have finally ended their hoodoo.
It’s their second win over Brighton this season after winning in September’s EFL Cup clash, but a rare league triumph. Chelsea hadn’t beaten Albion at home in the top-flight since 2019, so Mauricio Pochettino will be delighted.
Chelsea’s home problems began last season
The question is whether Chelsea can find some form at home, as they’ve been in this situation before. In 2022/23, the Blues would get a result at home but consistently follow it up with a draw or defeat.
Chelsea only managed six wins from 19 at Stamford Bridge last season and were seven without victory until August. Only five clubs had a worse home record than the Blues in 2022/23 too.
A bloated squad and ill-equipped manager both played their part in Chelsea’s demise, so problems wouldn’t be fixed overnight. One win over Brighton isn’t an example of Pochettino’s men turning the tide either.
Chelsea only have two wins at the Bridge this season, losing more games (3) than all but three clubs. Only two clubs have conceded more home goals than the Blues, so they have a long way to go.
Chelsea are in better shape recently
Despite their poor overall home form this season, Chelsea are now having a good few weeks at the Bridge. The Blues have won two and drawn one of their last three home games in all competitions.
Chelsea beat Blackburn 2-0 in the EFL Cup and drew 4-4 with Manchester City in the league before beating Brighton. Their next home game is against Sheffield United, so Pochettino’s men will fancy their chances of a result.
Chelsea haven’t gone three or more home games unbeaten since October 22, so this has been a long time coming.
