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"Chelsea Edges Past Brighton 2-1 with Cole Palmer's 22nd Season Goal Despite Reece James' Red Card Drama"
In a pivotal clash at the Amex Stadium, Chelsea clinched a vital 2-1 victory against Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday evening.
Cole Palmer's 22nd goal of the Premier League season proved decisive, propelling the Blues to sixth place in the standings and firmly securing their grip on the Europa League qualification spot.
However, the match was not without controversy, as Reece James saw red late in the game, leaving Chelsea frustrated, particularly in light of Tariq Lamptey's earlier escape from punishment.
The game saw Chelsea's early penalty claim dismissed after a VAR review, but Palmer broke the deadlock in the 34th minute, converting Cucurella's low cross.
Christopher Nkunku extended Chelsea's lead in the 64th minute, providing a cushion despite James' dismissal. Although Welbeck pulled one back for Brighton in stoppage time, Chelsea held on for the win.
The victory marked Chelsea's fourth consecutive win, vaulting them into the top six after Newcastle's defeat to Manchester United. A draw against Bournemouth in their final match would guarantee European football at Stamford Bridge next season, with the potential to leapfrog Spurs for fifth place.
However, James' red card posed a late challenge for the Blues, adding to their substitutes' disciplinary woes in the Premier League.
Despite his limited playing time, James leads the division in red cards this season, underscoring the defensive challenges Chelsea faced.
Meanwhile, Brighton's quest for a top-half finish hinges on a final-day showdown against Manchester United, as they aim to bounce back from a run of disappointing results.