Chelsea avoids major slip against Ipswich

Chelsea narrowly avoided a humiliating defeat at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon, coming back from 0-2 down to draw 2-2 with relegation-threatened Ipswich Town. A second-half own goal and a moment of brilliance from Jadon Sancho salvaged a point, but it wasn’t enough to maintain their position in the Premier League top four.

Chelsea stunned early by struggling Ipswich

The match started in disastrous fashion for Enzo Maresca’s side. Despite dominating possession—76% in the first half alone—and creating numerous chances, Chelsea failed to find the net before the break. Ipswich, on the other hand, made the most of their limited opportunities. In the 19th minute, Julio Enciso opened the scoring with a composed finish that left Stamford Bridge stunned. Just over ten minutes later, Ben Johnson doubled the visitors' lead, capitalizing on a rare defensive lapse. The Blues suddenly found themselves two goals down to a side battling for survival.

Tuanzebe own goal sparks Chelsea comeback

Chelsea came out for the second half with renewed urgency and found an immediate lifeline. Within a minute of the restart, Axel Tuanzebe turned a cross into his own net, halving Ipswich's lead. From that point on, Chelsea controlled the match entirely. Ipswich struggled to string passes together, and the hosts continued to press forward in waves.

Sancho’s magic levels the score

Despite their dominance, Chelsea had to wait until the 79th minute for the equalizer. It came through Jadon Sancho, who curled a stunning strike into the far corner to make it 2-2. The goal ignited hope for a late winner, but time ran out before Chelsea could complete the comeback.

Costly draw in top-four battle

While the result avoided complete disaster, Chelsea’s Champions League hopes took a hit. With only a point from a match they were expected to win, the Blues now fall behind Manchester City in the table. If Newcastle United win their match against Manchester United later today, Chelsea could even slip out of the top five. For a club with high ambitions, it’s a frustrating outcome that reflects their inconsistent season.

Looking ahead

With only a handful of matches left in the season, Chelsea must regain their focus quickly. Dropping points against a team like Ipswich—who remain deep in the relegation zone—could prove costly in the final reckoning. Enzo Maresca’s side will need to tighten up defensively and find their finishing touch if they hope to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League.