Brentford produced a superb second-half performance to beat Chelsea 3-0 at the Gtech Community Stadium, handing Xabi Alonso his heaviest defeat since taking charge at Stamford Bridge.
After a goalless opening period, the Bees found another level after the break and scored three times to secure their first Premier League victory over Chelsea since their promotion to the top flight.
Chelsea struggled to create clear opportunities, while Brentford gradually took control as the match progressed.
Anthony breaks Chelsea resistance
Brentford finally made the breakthrough just after the hour mark when Jaidon Anthony rose highest to head home from Schuster’s knockdown following a corner from the left.
Chelsea briefly threatened to respond, with the visitors forcing Brentford to scramble the ball clear. Barco also appealed for a penalty after a challenge involving Sangare, but the referee waved away the claims.
The Bees remained the more dangerous side and eventually doubled their advantage seven minutes from full time.
Thiago and Carvalho complete rout
Brentford broke quickly on the counter, with Martinez saving Schade’s initial effort but only parrying the ball into the path of Igor Thiago.
The striker made no mistake with the rebound, powering the ball home for his first Premier League goal of the season and putting the hosts firmly in control.
Fabio Carvalho then added a third in stoppage time, arriving at the back post to convert a simple finish.
The goal was Carvalho’s second in as many matches after he also scored in Brentford’s midweek EFL Cup victory over Reading.
Brentford’s convincing performance was reflected in their 2.65 expected goals, while Chelsea managed just 0.82 xG during a disappointing outing in West London.
The victory lifts Brentford to third place ahead of the weekend fixtures, while Chelsea drop to seventh.
For Alonso, the defeat represents his second loss since becoming Chelsea manager and his biggest setback so far.
