Martinez’s Chelsea debut marred by goals as Blues edge Brighton 4-3

Emiliano Martinez endured a difficult Chelsea debut as the Argentine World Cup-winning goalkeeper conceded three goals, but the Blues held on for a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brighton at Stamford Bridge on Sunday (August 30).


The match marked Martinez’s first appearance for Chelsea since joining the club from Aston Villa. While his debut was far from ideal, Xabi Alonso’s side produced enough attacking firepower to secure all three points in a seven-goal thriller.

Chelsea made a blistering start, taking the lead in the fourth minute through Romeo Lavia. Pedro Neto doubled the advantage 10 minutes later before Joao Pedro added a third in the 32nd minute.

Brighton pulled one back three minutes later when Malik Yalcouye found the net, leaving Chelsea 3-1 ahead at halftime.

The visitors mounted a strong comeback after the break. Chelsea defender Pedro scored an own goal in the 63rd minute to cut the deficit to 3-2 and put the hosts under pressure.

Cole Palmer restored Chelsea’s two-goal cushion with a superb finish in the 74th minute, making it 4-2.

Brighton scored again late in the game to reduce the deficit to one, but Chelsea held firm in the closing stages to claim a dramatic victory.