Influential Sub Christopher Nkunku Secures Narrow Chelsea Victory Over Bournemouth

Christopher Nkunku sealed a dramatic victory for Chelsea with a late goal against Bournemouth on Saturday. Despite facing pressure from the hosts, the Blues were able to hold on for a 1-0 win thanks to Nkunku's heroics off the bench. The game saw Chelsea's resilience tested, with goalkeeper Robert Sanchez making a crucial penalty save and Bournemouth hitting the woodwork twice. The depth of Chelsea's expensive squad proved beneficial, with Jadon Sancho making a strong impression after being brought on at halftime in his debut for the club. The result highlighted Chelsea's strength and ability to grind out important wins.

Nkunku span onto Sanchez's pass and produced a clinical low finish for his first Premier League goal of the season.

There was still time for a Premier League record to be set as referee Anthony Taylor dished out 14 yellow cards, surpassing the previous high of 12.

However, Chelsea will care little about the fractious nature of a scrappy game as victory lifts Enzo Maresca's men up to seventh with seven points from their opening four games.

"You cannot come here and win without getting your shirt dirty," said Maresca on his side's ability to battle through their lack of cohesion after another turbulent summer in the transfer market.

Sancho was one of 10 new signings after bringing to an end his disastrous spell at United.

However, the England international shone on loan at Borussia Dortmund in the second half of last season, helping the German giants reach the Champions League final.

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"First of all it is amazing to make my debut for Chelsea. Just being back playing I'm very grateful," said Sancho.

"I've been working hard for this moment and I'm just happy that I got my chance."

It was a case of what might have been for Bournemouth as Marcus Tavernier and Ryan Christie hit the woodwork, either side of record signing Evanilson's missed spot-kick.

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"We had more everything, more shots, more corners but at the end what really matters is to score and they did it at the end," said Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola.

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(This story has not been edited by staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)