Chelsea opened their Premier League account under new manager Xabi Alonso with a hard-fought victory at Craven Cottage, where Cole Palmer was the standout performer. The England international both scored and provided the assist for Joao Pedro, helping Chelsea to a slender triumph over local rivals Fulham.
Palmer's direct contributions proved decisive in a match that unfolded as a tight, competitive affair. His goal and the pass that led to Pedro's strike were the moments that ultimately separated the teams, as Chelsea managed to convert their chances while restricting Fulham's attacking threats.
For Alonso, the result offers a positive start and a confidence boost as he begins his tenure at Stamford Bridge. The new head coach will be encouraged by his side's ability to secure a result away from home against an organised and determined Fulham team led by Alvaro Arbeloa.
Fulham, coached by Arbeloa, showed resilience and created opportunities of their own but were unable to find the finishing touch required to change the outcome. The narrow defeat leaves questions for Fulham to answer ahead of their next fixtures, while Chelsea will look to build on this victory as the Premier League campaign progresses.