New Delhi: Chelsea handed recently crowned champions Liverpool a stinging 3-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge, a result that significantly boosts the Blues’ hopes of a top-four Premier League finish. From the opening whistle, Maresca’s men were sharper, more urgent, and looked like the side with everything to play for.

The hosts didn’t waste time asserting themselves, as within two minutes and 33 seconds into the match, captain Enzo Fernandez found the back of the net, tucking away Neto’s well-placed cross past Alisson. Liverpool, perhaps still riding high from their title celebrations, seemed hopeful but were caught off guard by Chelsea’s early intent.

After grabbing the lead, the Blues dropped deeper and allowed........

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