Aston Villa Stages Dramatic Comeback to Defeat Chelsea

2025-03-02

Aston Villa came from behind to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Villa Park, with Marco Asensio scoring twice in the second half to seal the win. The result ended Villa’s five-match winless streak in the Premier League and reignited their hopes of securing a top-four finish, while Chelsea’s struggles continued as they suffered their third consecutive defeat.

Chelsea took an early lead in the ninth minute when Enzo Fernandez capitalised on a precise cross from Pedro Neto, slotting the ball past Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The Blues dominated much of the first half, but Villa emerged rejuvenated after the break, thanks in part to the introduction of Marcus Rashford at half-time. The on-loan Manchester United forward made an immediate impact, providing two assists for Asensio.

Villa’s equaliser came in the 57th minute when Rashford squared the ball for Asensio, who poked it home after a VAR review confirmed the goal. The hosts then completed their comeback in the 89th minute, as Asensio’s speculative effort from distance squirmed under Chelsea goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, who should have done better. The error proved costly, handing Villa a crucial three points.

The victory lifts Villa to seventh place, just one point behind Chelsea, who missed the chance to leapfrog Manchester City into fourth. Villa boss Unai Emery praised his team’s resilience, particularly the impact of Rashford and Asensio, while Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca lamented his side’s inability to capitalise on their chances.

Both teams now turn their attention to midweek fixtures, with Villa facing Crystal Palace on Tuesday, while Chelsea host Southampton. The result leaves the race for Champions League qualification wide open, with just five points separating fourth-placed Manchester City and tenth-placed Fulham.