Chelsea’s winning start under new manager Xabi Alonso came at Craven Cottage, where they defeated Fulham 3-2 in a thrilling encounter, with all three of their attacking players finding the net.
The visitors needed just half a minute to break the deadlock. Palmer threaded a precise pass through to Joao Pedro, who clinically finished to mark the signing of his new long-term deal with an early opening goal.
Fulham drew level before the interval through King, exploiting a mistake from Sanchez in the Chelsea net, who allowed the ball to squeeze inside the near post.
Chelsea re-established their lead shortly before half-time. Lacroix ventured into the penalty area and delivered an impeccable cross for fellow debutant Rogers, who drove the ball into the net.
Palmer then doubled the advantage following excellent combination play with Joao Pedro. However, Fulham responded immediately when new signing Garcia headed home after Sanchez pushed Castagne’s effort into a dangerous area.
Chelsea secured all three points in a captivating match in west London. Below are the player ratings from the fixture at SW6:
Robert Sanchez – A costly error led directly to King’s equaliser. The powerful strike came at the near post, yet it should still have been stopped. He also struggled with Garcia’s goal, palming the ball into a dangerous position for the Fulham striker. 4
Josh Acheampong – Impressive defensive work within the opening 10 minutes to prevent a clear opportunity. Acheampong covered the near post expertly, repeating this throughout a strong showing from the Cobham academy product. 8
Maxence Lacroix – Outstanding defending on his competitive debut. The Frenchman excels in individual duels and demonstrated this ability more frequently than Alonso would have preferred. A remarkable run and assist for Rogers’ strike. 8
Levi Colwill – Lucky to escape an early dismissal for a challenge on Oscar Bobb. Fortunately, Lacroix provided cover for his defensive partner. Performed adequately but was the weakest of the back three. At fault for Garcia’s goal, misreading the ball’s trajectory. 5
Malo Gusto – Worked hard but occasionally lacked composure when in possession. 6
Romeo Lavia – Recklessly booked very early in the match. Distributed the ball effectively. 6
Reece James – Solid defensively while operating in the middle of the pitch. James frequently took responsibility for covering Acheampong during his forward surges from the right flank. 6
Jorrel Hato – The Dutch international carried the ball forward whenever possible from left wing-back. Unassuming but worked tirelessly. 6
Cole Palmer – Demonstrated perfect awareness of Joao Pedro’s position for the opener, playing a beautifully weighted pass that his teammate finished expertly. His first league assist since February. Partially responsible for squandering chances in the first half by dwelling on the ball instead of shooting. 8
Morgan Rogers – Delighted to score on his Premier League debut. Excellent positioning made it a straightforward finish. Combined effectively with Palmer. He already has his own supporters’ chant, and it’s an excellent one (set to ‘I Just Can’t Get Enough’ by Depeche Mode). 8
Joao Pedro – A sublime finish inside the opening minute gave Chelsea the lead and continued his excellent pre-season form into the campaign. Could easily have added further goals. 8
Enzo Fernandez (replaced Lavia, 65th minute) – Greeted with loud jeers upon entering the field. Immediately involved and sought to establish control for Chelsea. 6
Pep Chavarria (replaced Hato, 65th minute) – Energetic in an attacking capacity. Found some excellent positions near the far post. 6
Pedro Neto (replaced Gusto, 76th minute) – Played the closing 14 minutes as right wing-back. Carried out his duties adequately. 6
Estevao Willian (replaced Palmer, 83rd minute) – Insufficient time to make any meaningful contribution. N/A
Geovany Quenda (replaced Rogers, 83rd minute) – Pleased to make his Premier League bow. N/A