Chelsea Snatch Victory in Stoppage Time as Pedro Neto Shines
High drama took center stage at Craven Cottage as Chelsea pulled off a remarkable 2-1 comeback over Fulham on April 20, 2025. Entering the final moments of the match, the mood was tense, with both teams in desperate search of points in the Premier League. For Chelsea fans, it was pure ecstasy as Pedro Neto delivered a moment of magic deep into stoppage time. The 90+3rd minute saw Neto curl a stunning effort beyond Fulham keeper Bernd Leno, sparking wild celebrations in the away section and leaving Fulham players slumped in disbelief.
Fulham had started on the front foot, pressing Chelsea high and forcing turnovers in midfield. For much of the first half, the hosts kept Chelsea pinned back, with their persistence eventually paying off as they grabbed the opening goal before the break. Fulham fans could sense a rare derby win on the horizon. But football in this city rarely follows the script, especially between these two London rivals.
Tyrique George Equalizer Sets Stage for Neto's Heroics
The real shift came after halftime. Chelsea looked more composed, with head coach Enzo Maresca throwing on attacking changes and urging his players forward. The turning point arrived in the 78th minute. Fulham, who had defended resolutely for much of the game, made the cardinal error of switching off for a split second. Tyrique George, only recently promoted to Chelsea's senior squad, capitalized on a poor clearance and coolly slotted home from close range. Suddenly, the advantage Fulham had worked so hard to earn was gone.
The closing minutes saw both sides throwing caution to the wind. Fulham hunted for another lead and came agonizingly close when their top scorer rattled the woodwork. But Maresca’s Chelsea were relentless. Neto—who has had critics questioning his big-game credentials—stepped up exactly when it mattered. With the crowd urging Fulham to hold on, Chelsea surged forward yet again. Neto picked up the ball on the edge of the box, shifted onto his left, and unleashed a shot that arrowed into the top corner. Seconds later, the final whistle blew, and Chelsea’s jubilant bench flooded the field.
This victory wasn’t just another three points. It was proof of Chelsea’s refusal to accept defeat, even when the odds look stacked. For Maresca, who has faced heavy scrutiny this season, the performance was a vindication of his approach—attacking, committed, and never giving up until the last second.
As for Fulham, the result was a familiar heartbreak. Once again, they found themselves punished for letting a lead slip late in the game. Despite their commitment and flashes of attacking quality, Fulham’s struggles to close out matches are hurting their season. Manager Marco Silva will need to find answers if the team is going to avoid sliding further down the table.
This latest London derby packed every bit of drama fans have come to expect. There were moments of high pressure, tempers flaring, and a match-winning goal worthy of the highlight reels. Chelsea will hope Neto’s strike can be a catalyst as the season enters its final stretch. Fulham, for all their promise, must figure out how to stay cool when it counts.