Chelsea 2-4 Wolves: Cunha bags three to seal impressive comeback at the Bridge

With Chelsea lingering in mid-table obscurity ahead of Sunday’s clash against an in-form Wolves side, three points were desperately needed as Mauricio Pochettino’s side set out in pursuit of a statement victory after a thumping defeat to Liverpool in midweek.

CHE: Petrović; Chilwell, Silva, Disasi, Gusto; Fernández, Caicedo; Sterling, Gallagher, Palmer; Nkunku

WOL: Sá; Toti, Dawson, Kilman; Aït-Nouri, João Gomes, Lemina, Semedo; Cunha, Sarabia; Neto

After an utterly embarrassing dismantling on the road, there was plenty for Chelsea fans to celebrate when Cole Palmer handed Sunday’s hosts the lead after just 19 minutes. Having latched onto a though ball from Moises Caicedo, the Englishman slotted past Jose Sá with remarkable composure to snatch an early advantage.

But Matheus Cunha would take matters into his own hands just three minutes later, kickstarting a sensational comeback performance as his deflected shot caught Djordje Petrović off-guard.

An unfortunate own goal from Axel Disasi just before the break would hand Wolves the upper hand at the break, after Pedro Neto and Rayan Aït-Nouri combined – with the resulting shot deflecting off the French defender.

The Blues were met with a chorus of boos as they trudged down the tunnel, but they were unable to muster up a performance worth talking about in the second half – with Neto teeing up Cunha for Wolves’ third goal of the afternoon instead.

With less than ten minutes remaining at Stamford Bridge, the Brazilian forward then completed his hat-trick after being hauled to the ground inside the penalty area by Malo Gusto. He dispatched his effort from the spot past Petrović, and while his compatriot Thiago Silva was able to nod home just four minutes later, it would be nothing more than a consolation for Chelsea.

Wolves now move into the top half of the table at Chelsea’s expense, and Gary O’Neil will strive to ensure his side strengthen their league position as they host Brentford next Saturday.

Chelsea must see out an FA Cup replay against Aston Villa before they can turn their attention back to the Premier League.