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Chelsea extended their winning streak in the Premier League to five matches with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brentford late Sunday night.
Despite dominating large periods of the game, the Blues were made to sweat in the closing stages after Bryan Mbeumo’s 90th-minute strike reduced the deficit.
Marc Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson scored the goals for Chelsea, with Cucurella heading home an excellent cross from Noni Madueke just before halftime. Jackson sealed what appeared to be a decisive victory with a well-worked second goal in the 80th minute.
However, Brentford refused to give up, and Mbeumo’s late strike ensured a nervy conclusion to the match.
Chelsea’s defense held firm during the seven minutes of added time, with goalkeeper Robert Sanchez not required to make any notable saves.
The victory met disappointment for Chelsea with Cucurella’s dismissal after receiving a second yellow card following a confrontation with Kevin Schade after the final whistle.
Brentford’s defeat leaves them with just one point from their eight away matches in the Premier League this season despite a home form that rivals the best in the league.
Chelsea will look to maintain their momentum when they host Shamrock Rovers in the Conference League midweek, before facing Everton at Goodison Park next weekend. A win against Everton could potentially propel Chelsea to the top of the league table heading into Christmas.
Brentford, meanwhile, will face Newcastle United in the EFL Cup quarter-finals next, followed by a league match against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
