Chelsea’s growing momentum came to a screeching halt at Stamford Bridge as Sunderland struck deep into stoppage time to claim a stunning 2–1 victory and move into second place in the Premier League.
Alejandro Garnacho had put the hosts ahead early on, scoring his first goal for the club with a dazzling solo effort that raised hopes of another dominant display after their midweek win over Ajax. But Sunderland refused to wilt, and Wilson Isidor pounced on a loose ball from a long throw to draw level before half-time.
Enzo Maresca’s side pushed hard in the second half but lacked sharpness in the final third, their frustration growing as chance after chance went begging.
That profligacy proved costly in the fourth minute of stoppage time when substitute Brian Brobbey led a swift counterattack, holding up play before feeding Chemsdine Talbi, who buried a composed finish from the edge of the area.
The late collapse leaves Chelsea seventh in the table, missing the chance to go second while Sunderland continue their impressive start under Regis Le Bris, sitting just two points behind leaders Arsenal despite playing a game more.
Chelsea now turn their focus to the EFL Cup, visiting Wolves on Wednesday, 29 October (8:45 p.m. WAT), before hosting Tottenham in the Premier League on Saturday, 1 November (6:30 p.m. WAT).
