Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo found the back of the net, but it was not enough to prevent Southampton from suffering a heavy 5-1 defeat to Chelsea in Wednesday’s Premier League clash at St. Mary’s Stadium.
Softfootball understands that Aribo’s goal was one of the few bright moments for the struggling Saints, who remain rooted to the bottom of the league table.
Chelsea made a fast start, taking the lead through Axel Disasi in the seventh minute before Aribo responded just four minutes later with a composed finish to level the scores.
The Nigerian’s strike was his second Premier League goal of the season, having opened his account in Southampton’s 3-2 defeat to Leicester City in October.
However, Chelsea quickly regained control of the contest.
Christopher Nkunku restored the visitors’ advantage in the 17th minute before Noni Madueke extended the lead with a well-taken finish in the 34th minute.
Southampton’s task became even more difficult when they were reduced to 10 men just before halftime following a red card.
Chelsea took full advantage of the numerical superiority in the second half, with Cole Palmer adding a fourth goal in the 76th minute before Jadon Sancho completed the rout three minutes from time.
The emphatic victory keeps Chelsea firmly in second place on 28 points as Enzo Maresca’s side continues its impressive Premier League campaign.
For Southampton, the defeat leaves them rooted to the foot of the table with just five points, increasing the pressure on Russell Martin as the Saints continue their fight against relegation.
