Chelsea see off Brighton with Eden Hazard the star
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Chelsea consolidated fourth place in the Premier League with a 2-1 win at Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday that became harder work than had seemed likely in the first half.
Having won 4-0 at the Amex Stadium last season, they were on course for a repeat after taking a 2-0 lead at the interval.
Eden Hazard set up the first goal for Pedro after 17 minutes and scored the second himself before halftime following a defensive error.
Brighton came back into contention through Solly March's goal midway through the second half and Lewis Dunk went close to an equaliser.
The home side have not beaten Chelsea in any competition since 1933 but they stayed 13th in the table, nine points clear of the bottom three places.
Chelsea moved three points clear of London rivals Arsenal, who were beaten at Southampton. Reuters
PREVIEW
What time does it start?
Brighton vs Chelsea kicks off at 1:30pm (GMT) on Sunday 16th December.
Where can I watch it?
The match will not be shown live on TV or online in the UK.
Independent Sport will keep you up to date with all the goals as they fly in via our live blog.
Highlights will be shown at 10:15pm on BBC Two.
Player to watch…
David Luiz: After a torrid individual display at Tottenham three weeks ago, the Brazilian scored and played superbly in Chelsea’s win against Manchester City last week. As unpredictable as ever, the 31-year-old defender has solidified a partnership with German Antonio Rudiger at the back, and the Blues have only conceded 13 goals in the league this season.
Form guide…
Brighton: LLDWWL
Chelsea: LWWLWD
Odds…
Brighton to win: 15/2
Chelsea to win: 11/25
Draw: 17/5
(Odds provided by 888 Sport)
Moments away now from the two early games getting underway.
One Seagull is a little anxious to get going against Chelsea...
70 miles apart along the South Coast, Southampton-Arsenal and Brighton-Chelsea kick off.
Southampton 0-0 Arsenal, 1 minute
It looks as if Arsenal have opted for a back three again, with Granit Xhaka alongside Laurent Koscielny and Stephan Lichtsteiner.
A similarly wing-backed formation from the hosts, with Matt Targett and young Frenchman Yan Valery occupying the wider berths.
Southampton 0-0 Arsenal, 3 minutes
Arsenal showing some early competency with the ball. Nothing in the way of more attacking play just yet, however.
Southampton 0-0 Arsenal, 4 minutes
Indeed it is the home side with the first foray into the penalty area, with Nathan Redmond utilising his ability with the ball at his feet to nearly profit.
Arsenal smother the ball away.
Southampton 0-0 Arsenal, 5 minutes
First chance, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang nearly puts Arsenal ahead.
It is a lovely clipped pass down the middle from Matteo Guendouzi to find Aubameyang using his pace beyond the Southampton back-three. Aubameyang takes it down deftly, but is denied in strong fashion by Alex McCarthy, who made himself big to block behind for a corner.
Brighton 0-0 Chelsea, 6 minutes
A relatively quiet start at the Amex.
Eden Hazard is fouled for the first time. Could be a fair few of those today. Hazard once again starts in the centre of Chelsea's attacking three.
Brighton 0-0 Chelsea, 7 minutes
David Luiz lines up the free kick, but only finds the arms of Mat Ryan in the Brighton goal. A tame effort.
Southampton 0-0 Arsenal, 10 minutes
Against Chelsea earlier in the season Southampton were dreadfully defensive and cautious in the early stages, and never really emerged from their shell, giving Chelsea the early momentum.
They've started with more verve and vigour today. A fairly even game so far.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments