Chelsea’s FA Cup campaign is over, and they only have themselves to blame.
Brighton & Hove Albion had just been humiliated 7-0 by Nottingham Forest, yet they found a way to come from behind and dump Chelsea out of the competition.
It was another night that summed up the Blues’ biggest problem – consistency.
An early goal failed to settle them. Cole Palmer’s cross was fumbled into the net by Bart Verbruggen, gifting Chelsea the lead inside five minutes.
Instead of building on it, they allowed Brighton to dictate the game. Seven minutes later, Joel Veltman’s cross found Georginio Rutter, who drifted between defenders to nod Brighton level.
The hosts were the better side from that moment on. They played with more urgency, intensity and belief – qualities Chelsea have struggled to maintain this season.
Brighton completed their turnaround in the second half when Kaoru Mitoma lifted the ball over Robert Sanchez after chesting it into his path. The visitors protested for handball, but there was no reprieve.
Enzo Maresca admitted his side must learn how to win tight games. “For sure, we need to learn how to win games 1-0,” he said. “It’s part of football, but big clubs know how to do that.”
It is not the first time Chelsea have let a lead slip. They did it against Manchester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Their wastefulness has now cost them a trophy.
With the FA Cup gone, Chelsea must ensure they finish the season strongly. The Europa Conference League offers a real chance at silverware, but their league form needs to improve.
Performances like this will not be enough. Brighton had been embarrassed a week ago but showed resilience and belief to bounce back. By contrast, Chelsea looked fragile.
Their season is not over, but the warning signs are clear. If they do not address their inconsistency, this campaign will end just like the last one – empty-handed.
