Securing a spot in the FA Cup fourth round, Chelsea dominated Championship side Preston at Stamford Bridge with four second-half goals.
Armando Broja initiated the scoring with an exceptional glancing header from Malo Gusto’s left-wing cross just before the hour mark, followed by Thiago Silva finding himself unmarked to head home from a corner eight minutes later.
The third goal materialized within 11 minutes when Raheem Sterling’s dipping free-kick from 20 yards out eluded a helpless Freddie Woodman in the Preston goal.
Enzo Fernandez secured the fourth goal from close range late in the game after a video assistant referee review, initially flagged offside.
Despite Preston’s lively performance in the first half, actively attacking Chelsea, the scoreline seemed harsh on them.
Chelsea, however, created superior chances. Cole Palmer had a prime opportunity but missed wide after a pinpoint ball over the top from Fernandez. Fernandez himself had an excellent chance but directed his header straight at Woodman from six yards out.
After the break, Mauricio Pochettino’s team displayed greater clinical efficiency, gradually pulling away from Preston as the visitors fatigued.
With this victory secured, Chelsea can shift their focus to the upcoming first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Middlesbrough on Tuesday.
Chelsea quality shines through
As comfortable as it eventually turned out, the majority of the evening proved to be a source of frustration for Chelsea for nearly an hour.
Preston, fueled by their passionate traveling supporters, were resolute in providing something for their fans to cheer about. They showed no intention of merely adopting a defensive stance, challenging Chelsea to dictate the proceedings.
While Ryan Lowe’s team struggled to generate clear-cut chances, their determined approach, particularly through Liam Millar on the left, demanded Chelsea’s continued vigilance.
The first half saw missed opportunities at the other end, yet the hosts’ superior quality surfaced in the second period.
This was evident in the first goal, where Gusto delivered an exquisite right-footed cross for Broja, who soared to redirect the ball off the far post.
The effects of Preston’s first-half efforts became apparent, and even a slight decline in performance was enough for the Blues to capitalize on their advantage.
Chelsea efficiently sealed the outcome, allowing Pochettino to introduce 17-year-old Michael Golding for his debut in the closing stages. Woodman had to make a crucial save in stoppage time to deny the teenager from close range.