Softfootball understood that Chelsea’s clash with Wolves was never going to be an easy fixture, but Wolves’ alarming form told its own story. As of 7 February 2026, Wolves have conceded 48 goals this season and lost 19 Premier League matches, leaving them in the relegation zone and on course for a return to the Championship.
Traditionally a stable Premier League side, Wolves have dramatically regressed. They are failing defensively, struggling to score goals, and unable to retain possession. Their performance against Chelsea highlighted these issues in the worst possible way.
The low point came when Wolves gifted Cole Palmer three goals in the first half, allowing him to score a historic hat-trick. Palmer has now become the first player in Premier League history to score three first-half hat-tricks, previously doing so against Everton and Brighton, before repeating the feat against Wolves.
Watch the highlight shared by Skysports on Youtube below;
Palmer now has seven goals this season after 14 matches. However, the numbers also show areas for improvement, with four of those goals coming from penalties and only three from open play.
For Chelsea, the win was vital. With the race for the top four intensifying, the Blues must continue picking up maximum points over their next two to three fixtures. Failure to secure Champions League qualification especially if Manchester United finish ahead of them, would turn the end of the season into major drama at Stamford Bridge.
