Everton delivered a dominant performance on Saturday, defeating Chelsea 3-0, with Beto netting twice to deepen the Blues’ struggles.
Chelsea’s push for a Champions League spot took another hit following the heavy loss, capping off a difficult week for manager Liam Rosenior’s side. After their 8-2 aggregate exit to Paris Saint-Germain earlier in the week, the defeat marks their fourth straight loss, increasing pressure on the manager just over two months into his tenure.
Beto led the charge for Everton with a brace, while Iliman Ndiaye added a third goal to seal an impressive victory—the club’s best so far at their new stadium.
The result tightens the race for European qualification, leaving Chelsea in sixth place, just two points ahead of seventh-placed Everton.
With a top-five finish likely enough to secure Champions League qualification due to English clubs’ strong performances in Europe this season, Chelsea now face an uphill battle. Their remaining fixtures include tough clashes against Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool.
James Garner set up Everton’s opener with an excellent pass in the 33rd minute, allowing Beto to score. Chelsea nearly responded, but Jordan Pickford made a superb save to deny Enzo Fernández.
Chelsea’s goalkeeper Robert Sanchez endured a difficult outing, particularly for Everton’s second goal when Beto’s shot slipped through his legs shortly after halftime.
Beto was also involved in the third goal, winning an aerial duel before setting up Ndiaye, who drove into the box and fired into the top corner.
Everton’s recent home form has improved, with back-to-back league wins at their new 53,000-capacity stadium. They now sit within three points of local rivals Liverpool, whom they will face in the first Merseyside derby at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on April 19.
