Chelsea climbed back into the Premier League’s top four with a hard-fought victory over Leicester City at Stamford Bridge, thanks to Marc Cucurella’s decisive second-half strike.
The Spanish left-back, who has been enjoying a fine run in front of goal, found the net for the fifth time this season. His latest effort, his second in as many league games following his goal against Southampton,came in the 60th minute when he unleashed a powerful left-footed shot from 25 yards, beating Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen.
Before that moment, Chelsea had struggled to break down the visitors. Their best chance in the first half came when Jadon Sancho won a penalty after being fouled by Victor Kristiansen.
However, Cole Palmer saw his spot-kick saved by Hermansen, ending his perfect penalty record after converting all 12 of his previous attempts. It also extended Palmer’s goalless streak to nine matches across all competitions.
Leicester showed promise in the first half and nearly took the lead in an unusual fashion when Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo headed the ball against his own crossbar.
Despite that scare, the Foxes were unable to capitalize, and Chelsea grew stronger in the second half, securing the win that moved them two points ahead of reigning champions Manchester City.
For Leicester, the defeat deepened their relegation struggles. They remain in 19th place, level on points with 18th-placed Ipswich but trailing on goal difference, and still six points away from safety, with Wolves sitting just above the drop zone in 17th.
