Drogba Arena, London — 31 January 2054. Chelsea maintained their grip at the top of the Premier League table with a hard-fought 2–0 win over Nottingham Forest, showcasing patience, persistence, and the unrelenting professionalism that has defined Calin Dimario’s side all season.
After the fireworks of recent weeks — the 9–0 dismantling of Rotherham and the 5–0 Champions League triumph over PSV — this was a different kind of victory: one forged through resilience and control rather than flair. Forest, organized and disciplined under heavy pressure, frustrated the champions for long stretches, with goalkeeper André producing a heroic performance, making 18 saves to keep the visitors in the contest until the dying minutes.
Despite dominating possession and racking up 32 shots with an xG of 4.36, Chelsea had to wait until the 86th minute to find their breakthrough. It came courtesy of Mario Cardozo, whose thunderous drive from 20 metres finally broke Forest’s resistance. The Uruguayan midfielder, introduced to add energy in the final third, made an immediate impact and was instrumental in driving Chelsea forward as fatigue set in across the pitch.
Four minutes into stoppage time, Shon Mishpati — who has quietly developed into one of Chelsea’s most reliable wide forwards this season — sealed the result with a precise low finish that clipped the inside of the post before nestling into the net. The Israeli international’s ninth goal of the campaign reaffirmed his importance as a match-winner in tight games.
While André deservedly claimed Man of the Match honours for his heroics, the story of the evening was Chelsea’s consistency. Even when denied space and rhythm, Dimario’s men remained composed. The defensive pairing of Rustignoli and Cizvelis once again impressed, while Netanel Sahar — fresh off his brace against PSV — linked play intelligently despite not scoring himself.
The victory marks seven consecutive Premier League wins and extends Chelsea’s unbeaten run in all competitions to 19 matches. They now sit firmly at the summit with 65 points, 10 clear of Arsenal, who continue to chase in vain. With both domestic and European campaigns flourishing, this win, though less spectacular, underscored what has made Chelsea so formidable: the ability to grind as well as dazzle.
Man of the Match: André (Nottingham Forest) — 18 saves, kept his team alive for 85 minutes.
Standout Blues: Mario Cardozo, Shon Mishpati, Fernando González.
Chelsea march on — champions in performance, even when forced to be patient.