Chelsea Deny Potter Revenge with Dramatic 2-1 Win Over West Ham

LONDON — Chelsea staged a thrilling second-half comeback to defeat West Ham 2-1, spoiling Graham Potter’s return to Stamford Bridge and moving into fourth place in the Premier League.

Potter, who was sacked by Chelsea in 2023 after just seven months, hoped to claim a victory over his former club, but his plans were dashed. West Ham took the lead just before halftime through Jarrod Bowen, marking his return after injury.

However, Chelsea bounced back after the break, equalizing with Pedro Neto’s close-range strike in the 64th minute. The Blues sealed the win in the 74th minute when Aaron Wan-Bissaka deflected Cole Palmer’s cross into his own net, giving Chelsea a dramatic 2-1 victory.

The win lifts Chelsea two points above Manchester City and Newcastle in the race for a Champions League spot. It was also their first home league win after trailing at halftime since 2013.

Despite the distractions of the January transfer window, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca will be relieved to see his side finally get the three points, while Potter's West Ham has now won only once in five games since his arrival.