Brighton and Hove Albion secured a stunning 2-1 win against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League, with a stunning 30-yard strike from Paraguayan teenager Julio Enciso securing the victory.
The win boosted Brighton’s chances of securing a European qualification spot as they moved within four points of fifth-placed Tottenham.
The hosts had taken the lead through Conor Gallagher’s deflected effort, but Brighton managed to level the scores before halftime with substitute Danny Welbeck heading in a deep cross from Pascal Gross.
Chelsea tried to regain their advantage in the second half, but Brighton remained the more positive side throughout the game, with Enciso hitting the post before Welbeck sent the rebound over the bar.
The visitors’ efforts were finally rewarded when Enciso unleashed an unstoppable shot from 30-yards out in the 69th minute that gave Chelsea’s goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga no chance of stopping it.
The win marked Brighton’s first ever league win at Stamford Bridge and their first win against Chelsea since 1933.
Despite a three-game scoreless streak, Chelsea’s caretaker boss Frank Lampard could not help his side end their winless run, leaving the team languishing in 11th place in the Premier League table.
The victory was a significant boost to Brighton’s European qualification hopes, with the team now in 7th place and only four points behind Tottenham, who currently occupy the final Europa League spot.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will need to regroup and find a way to turn their fortunes around as they look to salvage their season.