Chelsea closed out 2024 with another disappointing Premier League result, falling 2–0 to a sharp and disciplined Ipswich Town side at Portman Road. Softfootball deduced, despite controlling 76% of the ball and outshooting the hosts 22–10, Enzo Maresca’s team once again lacked cutting edge and decisive defending in key moments.
Recall, Chelsea had fell to a heartbreaking 2–1 defeat against Fulham at Stamford Bridge as two late goals turned a match they had largely controlled into a costly Boxing Day setback.
Ipswich took the lead in the 12th minute after Liam Delap converted from the penalty spot, punishing Chelsea for a clumsy early challenge inside the area. The opener gave Kieran McKenna’s side the platform they needed, allowing them to settle into a compact defensive structure and attack Chelsea on the break.
The Blues pushed forward relentlessly, but their 700 completed passes and territorial dominance produced little reward, as Ipswich remained disciplined and their goalkeeper, Christian Walton, responded with several important stops.
Five minutes after the restart, former Chelsea academy winger Omari Hutchinson doubled Ipswich’s advantage with a composed finish from inside the box. The goal stunned the visitors and electrified Portman Road, with Hutchinson celebrating emphatically against his former club.
Maresca introduced Nicolas Jackson, Pedro Neto, and Jadon Sancho in the second half in search of a response, but Chelsea’s attacking unit struggled to find the sharpness required to break down an inspired Ipswich defense. Only four of Chelsea’s 22 attempts hit the target, underlining their ongoing issues in front of goal.
Watch the highlight of the match below,
The match grew scrappier in the final stages, with both sides collecting four yellow cards, but Ipswich held firm to secure a memorable victory and further expose Chelsea’s inconsistencies.
For the Blues, the defeat marks a third consecutive Premier League setback, intensifying pressure ahead of a critical stretch in the season. Ipswich, meanwhile, continue their impressive campaign, showing resilience, organization, and a growing belief that they can challenge established sides on any stage.
