Chelsea’s agony went on at Stamford Bridge as Brighton netted twice in added time to help the visitors clinch an entertaining 3-1 win, with substitute Danny Welbeck netting a brace.
Enzo Fernández had already scored Chelsea the lead with a first-half header, but Trevoh Chalobah’s 53rd-minute dismissal turned the tables. Reduced to 10 men, the Blues were unable to keep the pressure off Brighton’s late surge.
Maxim De Cuyper equalised with a header in added time after Yasin Ayari’s deep cross was recycled by Mats Wieffer. Welbeck then struck twice in quick succession to complete the comeback and leave Chelsea reeling.
The defeat marked the second consecutive match in which Enzo Maresca’s side collapsed after a red card, raising fresh doubts about their discipline and resilience.
