Chelsea have scored three goals in the opening minute of a Premier League half this season after Pedro Neto struck seconds after half-time in a 2-0 win over Everton.
Neto’s 46th-minute finish broke the deadlock at Goodison Park and continued Chelsea’s unusual run of fast starts from restarts. The result also ended Everton’s unbeaten league record.
Chelsea’s rapid starts continue against Everton
The pattern began on the opening day, when Jordan Henderson scored after 66 seconds against Bournemouth. Chelsea then added another goal inside the first minute of the second half against Brighton.
Neto’s goal against Everton completed the sequence after a goalless first period in which Chelsea struggled to find a way through the hosts’ disciplined defensive shape.
Moises Caicedo came closest before the interval with a volley, but Everton held firm. Chelsea’s immediate response after the restart ultimately proved decisive.
Everton pushed for an equaliser after falling behind, yet Chelsea managed the contest with composure. Neto settled the match in the 90th minute by scoring his second goal of the afternoon.
Pedro Neto delivers as Chelsea claim another win
The Portuguese winger provided the attacking spark Chelsea needed, with his two goals securing a clean sheet and three points for Xabi Alonso’s side.
The victory lifts Chelsea up the table and represents another encouraging result as they seek to establish themselves among the Premier League’s leading teams.
Three goals in the opening minute of a league half across their first seven matches is an unusual record, although the more significant outcome for Alonso will be Chelsea’s victory and Everton’s first defeat of the campaign.
