In a frustrating start to the 2025-26 Premier League season, Chelsea were unable to break down a resilient Crystal Palace side, resulting in a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge on August 17, 2025. The match, which marked the debut of several new signings for the Blues under manager Enzo Maresca, highlighted both defensive solidity and attacking shortcomings as neither team could find the back of the net despite moments of promise.
The game began with Chelsea controlling possession, but it was Crystal Palace who nearly took the lead in the first half. Eberechi Eze curled a stunning free-kick into the net, only for VAR to disallow the goal due to Marc Guehi being too close to the Chelsea wall and committing a minor infringement. This decision proved pivotal, as Palace’s defense, anchored by Guehi and new signing Maxence Lacroix, held firm against Chelsea’s probing attacks. The Blues had their chances, including a header from Marc Cucurella that went wide and a close-range effort from Trevoh Chalobah that sailed over the bar. In the second half, Chelsea ramped up the pressure, but late substitutes like Andrey Santos missed a golden opportunity in stoppage time, firing straight at Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Statistically, Chelsea dominated with around 60% possession and more shots on target, but their inability to convert chances underscored a lack of cutting edge in the final third. Palace, managed by Oliver Glasner, will be pleased with a point earned through disciplined defending and counter-attacking threats, setting a positive tone for their campaign.
Players Who Shone Brightly
Despite the stalemate, several Chelsea players delivered impressive performances that offered glimpses of potential for the season ahead. Teenager Josh Acheampong was the standout, earning widespread praise for his mature display in central defense. The 19-year-old, making only his third Premier League start, won crucial duels, made excellent sliding challenges, and looked composed on the ball, effectively neutralizing Palace’s forward Jean-Philippe Mateta. Ratings across sources placed him as high as 9/10, with experts noting his performance as a strong claim for more regular minutes.
Moises Caicedo also impressed in midfield, building on his form from the previous season. The Ecuadorian was strong in tackles, DRV the team forward with purposeful runs, and helped disrupt Palace’s transitions, earning ratings of 7-8/10. His all-around display provided stability in a sometimes disjointed engine room.
On the flanks, substitute Estevao injected energy after coming on in the 54th minute. The young Brazilian dazzled with mazy runs and a dangerous cross, nearly creating a goal, though he blasted a couple of chances over the bar. His lively cameo, rated around 6-7/10, hinted at why Chelsea invested heavily in his future.
For Crystal Palace, Eberechi Eze was a constant threat, gliding forward and nearly scoring with his disallowed free-kick, earning a standing ovation upon substitution amid transfer speculation.
Players Who Fell Short of Expectations
Not all performances matched the hype surrounding Chelsea’s revamped squad. Cole Palmer, who had been a revelation in previous campaigns, had a quiet afternoon. The England international struggled to find space, was less incisive with his passing, and saw efforts either blocked or looped over, resulting in low ratings of 4-6.5/10 across analyses. Experts noted he was a shadow of his usual self, failing to dominate as expected in the attacking midfield role.
New signing Joao Pedro, leading the line on his Premier League debut, endured a disappointing outing. The Brazilian forward was largely a passenger, dropping deep without creating much and failing to register a shot on target, with ratings dipping as low as 4/10. His movement was lively at times, but he was closely marked and couldn’t impose himself, leading to his substitution in the 73rd minute.
Jamie Gittens, another debutant on the left wing, started brightly with flashes of threat but faded after halftime, offering little productivity before being replaced. Ratings ranged from 4-7/10, with comments highlighting his hard work but lack of end product.
Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez drew mixed reviews, with poor distribution and positioning early on, though he benefited from the clean sheet. Ratings varied from 5-7.8/10, with some questioning his long-term fit as Maresca’s No. 1. Enzo Fernandez in midfield also underperformed, unable to influence proceedings and appearing frustrated upon substitution, rated 5-6.7/10.
Looking Ahead
This draw serves as a reality check for Chelsea, who have spent heavily in the transfer window but still lack the clinical edge needed to challenge for the title. Maresca will hope his young talents like Acheampong and Estevao continue to develop, while addressing the inconsistencies in attack. For Crystal Palace, the point at Stamford Bridge is a solid foundation, built on defensive resolve and individual brilliance from players like Eze.
As the season unfolds, both teams will aim to build momentum in upcoming fixtures, with Chelsea facing a test of their squad depth and Palace looking to capitalize on their organized approach.
