Chelsea missed the chance to go top of the Premier League after a frustrating 0-0 draw at Goodison Park. Enzo Maresca’s side dominated possession, but didn’t creat the better chances. The Everton’s defensive resilience denied the Blues a crucial win, and really could’ve walked away with all three points. The result also narrowed Chelsea’s lead over Arsenal to just two points, while Liverpool gained breathing room at the summit.
Sean Dyche’s defense proved too much for Maresca’s attack, holding Chelsea goalless for the first time since the opening day of the season against Manchester City. Despite dominating possession, the Blues found no way through Everton’s backline—a familiar frustration at a ground that has haunted them for years. The year of beating the bogey teams wasn’t enough to claim victory at Goodison, though thankfully, the next time Chelsea visit Everton, it’ll be at their new stadium, not this cursed fortress.
Chelsea’s attackers just went missing. Cole Palmer couldn’t find his usual spark, Nicolas Jackson looked more likely to hit the woodwork than the net, and Jadon Sancho drifted through the game like a ghost. Even Pedro Neto, so often the livewire, struggled to make an impact. It felt like every time the ball reached the final third, the ideas ran out, leaving Chelsea toothless when it mattered most.
A tale of two halves
Chelsea controlled the first half, enjoying 75 percent possession and registering eight attempts to Everton’s two. Nicolas Jackson came closest to breaking the deadlock, striking the woodwork, and denoted twice by Jordan Pickford in the first half. Yet, despite their dominance, Chelsea couldn’t capitalize and went into the break goalless.
The second half saw Chelsea struggle to maintain the same level of control. They managed only four more attempts at goal as Everton’s defensive shape frustrated their attacking rhythm. Lacking the creativity and precision to unlock the hosts, the Blues eventually settled for a point on a disappointing night.
Injuries and tactical adjustments
Chelsea’s attacking struggles were compounded by injuries and suspensions. With Marc Cucurella unavailable, Malo Gusto was tasked with inverting from the opposite flank, a tactical tweak that hindered the team’s width and buildup. The absence of key players highlighted the fragility of Chelsea’s depth and how thin margins can disrupt their system against disciplined opponents.
Title race perspective
The draw not only cost Chelsea the chance to overtake Liverpool at the top but also allowed Arsenal to close the gap behind them to just two points. Meanwhile, Liverpool now have some breathing room, strengthening their position at the summit to five points, and with a game in hand after defeating Tottenham.
For Chelsea, however, this result serves as a reality check. Despite their nine-game unbeaten run in the Premier League, it’s clear they aren’t in the title race. Maresca’s project is still in its early stages, and the primary goal remains returning to the Champions League rather than challenging for the trophy.
The Blues have made visible strides this season, but consistency and squad depth remain key areas for improvement. While a point at Goodison Park isn’t disastrous, Chelsea must find solutions against stubborn defenses if they’re to stay ahead of the chasing pack. For now, steady progress, rather than silverware, is the realistic focus.