By Frank Ulom
LONDON (CONVERSEER) – Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was sent off deep into stoppage time as the Blues earned a dramatic 2–1 victory over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, marking the fourth consecutive match in which the London side has received a red card.
Maresca was dismissed in the 90+6th minute after receiving a second yellow card, moments after substitute Estevao Willian struck a decisive winner in the fifth minute of stoppage time.
The Italian’s touchline dismissal capped another fiery encounter for Chelsea, who continue to struggle with disciplinary issues despite their impressive on-field performances.
The hosts had taken the lead in the 14th minute through a stunning long-range strike from Moisés Caicedo. Liverpool, however, responded after the break when Cody Gakpo converted in the 63rd minute from an Alexander Isak assist to level the score.
Just as the game looked set to end in a draw, Estevao – introduced late in the second half – fired home the winner to send the home fans into wild celebrations and deepen the crisis for Arne Slot’s Liverpool, who have now lost three consecutive matches across all competitions.
Chelsea’s recent disciplinary record has drawn increasing scrutiny, with Maresca’s red card coming after the team received three previous dismissals in successive fixtures.
The Blues have now picked up four red cards in their last four matches, raising concerns about composure and control during key moments of games.
Despite the late dismissal, Chelsea held on to secure all three points, moving further up the Premier League table and maintaining their strong start to the season.
Liverpool, on the other hand, face growing pressure after defeats to Crystal Palace and Galatasaray in the past week, with Saturday’s loss allowing Arsenal to overtake them in the league standings.
Cody Gakpo described the defeat as “hard to take” and admitted that the team must “go back to winning ways” when they face Manchester United at Anfield on 19th October after the international break.
