Sunderland secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Chelsea at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, handing the Blues a disappointing defeat in the Premier League.
Enzo Le Fée scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute after Chelsea defender Levi Colwill fouled Brian Brobbey inside the penalty area.
The goal gave Sunderland the advantage after an energetic start from the hosts, who continued to trouble Chelsea despite losing captain Granit Xhaka to an early injury.
Chelsea struggled to create clear-cut opportunities as Sunderland’s makeshift defence remained organised and kept the visitors at bay.
Manager Xabi Alonso attempted to change the course of the game with second-half substitutions, but his side failed to find an equaliser.
Cole Palmer and substitute Geovany Quenda threatened late on, but Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs and his defenders held firm to preserve their clean sheet.
The victory moves Sunderland out of the relegation zone, while Chelsea drop out of the Premier League’s top four.
The result also marks another memorable victory for Sunderland over Chelsea, who suffered a frustrating afternoon despite enjoying spells of possession.