Chelsea Defeats Fulham 3-2 in Premier League Opener at Craven Cottage

Chelsea secured a 3-2 victory over Fulham in their Premier League season opener at Craven Cottage, with Morgan Rogers scoring on his debut and Cole Palmer delivering a standout performance.

Joao Pedro opened the scoring for Chelsea within 31 seconds, but Fulham midfielder Josh King equalized before the first half ended. Morgan Rogers then scored Chelsea's second goal, followed by a Cole Palmer goal early in the second half. Fulham’s debutant striker Gonzalo Garcia narrowed the deficit, but Chelsea held on for the win.

Robert Sanchez, Chelsea’s goalkeeper, struggled throughout the match.

"An early kicking error gifted Fulham a corner. He should have saved King's equalizer at his near post," said BBC Sport.

Sanchez also parried a shot into a dangerous area that allowed Garcia to score.

Defender Maxence Lacroix was influential for Chelsea, contributing to both opening goals.

"He looked like a playmaker when he sent his man, pulled one back from the byline, and gave fellow new boy Rogers a pretty simple finish for a debut goal," reported BBC Sport.

Cole Palmer was praised as the best player on the pitch.

"Palmer was creative, physically impressive and produced several superb dribbles before scoring an excellent third goal," the Independent noted.

Palmer had struggled with groin injuries last season but has worked hard to improve his fitness this campaign. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso said, "Cole is determined to enjoy his football. He wants to be fit, he wants to feel healthy."

Alonso expressed optimism for Palmer's season, stating, "If we are able to reach him and he feels that flow in the game and connects well with the players, I'm sure his level is top, top class, world class, and that he will have a great season."

Fulham's standout player was Josh King, whose goals and chance creation kept his team competitive.

"The academy graduate was Fulham's standout performer, creating chances and posing a threat before scoring the first-half equalizer," BBC Sport said.

Other notable Fulham performances included goalkeeper Bernd Leno, who made several stops but conceded three goals, and defender Timothy Castagne, who provided assists but struggled defensively.

Chelsea’s new signing Morgan Rogers impressed, earning an 8 out of 10 rating from BBC Sport. Cole Palmer received a 9, reflecting his influence on the match.

Alonso also mentioned that striker Danny Welbeck would be assessed ahead of upcoming matches after carrying a minor knock, while the status of Mykhailo Mudryk remains undecided. "We don't have to rush on decisions. At the right time, we will take that decision," Alonso said.