EPL:Estevão’s Stoppage-Time Winner Sinks Liverpool In Stamford Bridge Thriller
3 min read
By Sedara Philip
Teenage sensation Estevão Willian scored his first goal for Chelsea deep into stoppage time to seal a sensational 2–1 victory over Liverpool in a pulsating Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge.
The 18-year-old Brazilian latched onto Marc Cucurella’s low cross in the 95th minute, sliding in ahead of Andy Robertson to send the home crowd into raptures and hand Chelsea their first league win after back-to-back defeats.
It was a moment of magic and redemption for Enzo Maresca’s side, who showed resilience, creativity, and character in what could be a defining performance of their season.
Chelsea began the game on the front foot, pressing high and showing renewed tactical fluidity. Early signs of confidence came when João Pedro, dropping deep from the number nine role, played an audacious scoop pass over the Liverpool defence that narrowly evaded Alejandro Garnacho.
But it was Moisés Caicedo who broke the deadlock with a moment of brilliance. Collecting a short pass from Malo Gusto, the Ecuadorian midfielder shrugged off Alexis Mac Allister and unleashed a 25-yard thunderbolt that rocketed into the top corner past debutant goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Stamford Bridge erupted as Caicedo celebrated his first goal in Chelsea colours — a strike that will live long in the memory of fans.
Chelsea maintained control for much of the first half, with Reece James and Cucurella containing Liverpool’s pacy wingers.
Garnacho went close to doubling the lead after a slick exchange between Gusto and Cucurella, while the home side were denied a penalty after Dominik Szoboszlai appeared to shove Garnacho in the box — a decision that saw Maresca booked for his furious protests.
Liverpool emerged stronger after the break, with substitute Florian Wirtz making an immediate impact. The German playmaker’s clever spin and pass released Mohamed Salah, who somehow fired wide from close range — a miss that proved costly.
Chelsea’s defensive woes deepened when Benoît Badiashile limped off injured, joining a long list of absentees. Moments later, Liverpool capitalised. A cross from Szoboszlai was deftly controlled by Alexander Isak, whose quick turn allowed Cody Gakpo to dart behind the defence and smash home the equaliser.
With Josh Acheampong also forced off, Maresca’s defence was patched together, but Chelsea refused to fold.
As the clock ticked into injury time, Chelsea pushed forward once more. Enzo Fernández squandered a glorious chance, heading Estevão’s teasing cross against the post when unmarked.
But the young Brazilian would have the final say. In the 95th minute, Cucurella surged down the left and whipped in a low cross. Estevão raced in at the far post, sliding ahead of Robertson to poke the ball home and ignite pandemonium around Stamford Bridge.
Manager Enzo Maresca sprinted the length of the touchline to celebrate with his players — a moment that captured the passion and relief of a rejuvenated Chelsea side. Even pop icon Madonna, watching from the stands, witnessed a finish destined to be replayed for years to come.
Chelsea’s performance was a statement of intent — a blend of youthful energy, tactical boldness, and unyielding spirit. Despite injuries and recent setbacks, the Blues showed they can stand toe-to-toe with the Premier League’s elite.
With Estevão’s first goal, Caicedo’s wonder strike, and Maresca’s touchline theatrics, this night in west London will live long in Chelsea folklore.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
