Teenage sensation Estêvão Willian delivered a dazzling, match-defining performance as Chelsea FC secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park

Chelsea FC secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday, January 25, 2026, climbing into fourth place in the Premier League table. Teenage sensation Estêvão Willian delivered a dazzling, match-defining performance, opening the scoring with a stunning solo goal and providing an assist as the Blues produced a clinical display to extend their resurgence under manager Liam Rosenior.

The 18-year-old Brazilian winger, making a rare Premier League start, broke the deadlock in the 34th minute with a breathtaking individual effort. Capitalizing on a defensive error by Crystal Palace's Jaydee Canvot, Estêvão latched onto a loose ball near the halfway line, surged past multiple defenders with electrifying pace and skill, and unleashed a powerful strike into the bottom corner—his first Premier League goal and a moment already hailed as one of the season's finest solo efforts.

Estêvão continued to shine, setting up João Pedro's clinical second-half finish to make it 2-0 shortly after the restart. Enzo Fernández later converted a controversial penalty to seal the three points, despite a late consolation for the 10-man Eagles, who saw Adam Wharton sent off.

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior lavished praise on the young star post-match: “Estêvão is so special—a player with incredible ability and talent. His goal was world-class, and his energy, intelligence, and link-up play were outstanding. He's breaking records and showing why he's one of the most exciting talents in the game.”

The win marks Chelsea's first Premier League away victory in some time against Palace and boosts their Champions League qualification hopes, as they leapfrog rivals in the top-four race. Estêvão's performance has drawn widespread acclaim, with pundits noting he broke a 33-year club record for impact in a rare start and earning Man of the Match honors.

Crystal Palace manager [relevant, e.g., Oliver Glasner or successor] acknowledged the quality of Chelsea's attacking play but lamented defensive lapses and the red card that shifted momentum.

This result highlights Chelsea's growing depth and youth integration, with Estêvão emerging as a key figure in their push for silverware.