London, Aug 31:
Chelsea maintained their perfect start under manager Xabi Alonso with a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brighton at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Chelsea raced into a three-goal lead through Romeo Lavia, Pedro Neto and Joao Pedro before Brighton mounted a spirited comeback. Malick Yalcouye pulled one back before an own goal reduced the deficit further.
Cole Palmer restored Chelsea’s two-goal advantage, but Pascal Gross headed Brighton’s third late in the game to set up a tense finish. Chelsea held on to secure their second consecutive league victory under Alonso.
The win underlined Chelsea’s attacking strength but also exposed defensive concerns for Alonso. The London club have scored seven goals in their opening two league games, although they have conceded five.
Meanwhile, Leeds United and Brentford played out a 1-1 draw. Kevin Schade put Brentford ahead before Dominic Calvert-Lewin equalised in the 79th minute to earn Leeds a point.