England Premier League Chelsea Held by Palace While Forest Start with a Win

After the celebrations of their Club World Cup triumph, Chelsea began their Premier League campaign with a frustrating 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge. The European champions, who had only a short preseason following their U.S. tour, lacked sharpness and intensity. Palace, on the other hand, looked better prepared after their extended buildup and recent Community Shield victory over Liverpool.

England midfielder Eberechi Eze, heavily linked with Tottenham, came close to a farewell goal when his free kick beat goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, but VAR ruled it out due to Marc Guehi’s infringement in the wall. Chelsea’s key attackers, Joao Pedro and Cole Palmer, who shone in the Club World Cup, were largely subdued. Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest started strongly with a 3-1 win over Brentford. Chris Wood, last season’s top scorer with 20 goals, struck twice in the first half, including an early opener from a defensive mistake and a composed finish in stoppage time.