Chelsea thrash Southampton mercilessly to boost UCL hopes

Chelsea’s impressive 4-0 victory over struggling Southampton on Tuesday propelled them to a much-needed fourth place in the Premier League standings.

This victory not only boosts Chelsea’s confidence but also deepens Southampton’s woes, keeping them firmly placed at the bottom of the table. The match showed Chelsea’s attacking prowess, as they dominated possession and created various goal-scoring opportunities. While Southampton struggled to contain their well-coordinated offensive attempts.

Christopher Nkunku opened the scoring in the 24th minute after capitalizing on a header from Tosin Adarabioyo. The French forward made a good impression in the box. He managed to bundle the ball into the net, putting Chelsea ahead early in the match.

Just 12 minutes later, Nkunku further influenced the game by turning provider for Pedro Neto. With a perfectly timed pass, he set up Neto, who fired a fierce left-footed shot that found the gap between goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale and the near post, doubling Chelsea’s advantage and putting Southampton on the back foot.

As the first half drew to a close, Chelsea continued to assert their dominance. Defender Levi Colwill scored the third goal just before the halftime whistle, heading down a well-placed free kick taken by Neto.

With Southampton struggling to mount any real challenge, Chelsea’s momentum grew, leaving them firmly in control as they entered the break with a commanding lead. Southampton’s defense appeared disorganized and incapable of responding effectively to Chelsea’s relentless pressure.

In the second half, Chelsea maintained their offensive stance, hitting a fourth goal in the 78th minute. This time, Marc Cucurella was the beneficiary of a pinpoint pass from young substitute Tyrique George. Cucurella finished the move with precision.

Ramsdale made a few sharp saves in the final ten minutes,  attempts from Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer. Southampton’s 22nd defeat of the season left them 13 points adrift of safety, while Chelsea continued to cling to their hopes for Champions League qualification in the upcoming season.

The Blues will now switch focus to the first leg of their UEFA Conference League last 16 tie at Copenhagen next Thursday before hosting Leicester City a week on Sunday. Southampton aren’t in action until they visit leaders Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday, March 8.