According to a report by Flashscore on Saturday October 17, 2026, Chelsea dominated possession during the opening half against Everton but struggled to turn their control into goals. Despite creating opportunities, the visitors encountered determined defending and goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who denied Palmer.

Cole Palmer tested Pickford with a powerful effort in the 15th minute, while Jordan Henderson saw his shot blocked six minutes later. Chelsea continued circulating possession, but Everton threatened through Thierno Barry, whose attempts were saved by Emiliano Martinez.

Moises Caicedo struck the crossbar with a first-time effort in the 41st minute, leaving Chelsea frustrated at the interval. Morgan Rogers and Pedro Neto also received yellow cards, while Josh Acheampong was booked as Everton held firm.

Four Worst Chelsea Players in the First Half

1. Josh Acheampong

Acheampong received a yellow card in the 32nd minute after bringing down an Everton player. The booking put him under disciplinary pressure for the remainder of the match, potentially limiting how aggressively he could defend.

2. Pedro Neto

Neto was booked in the 27th minute after repeatedly talking back to referee Paul Tierney. Although he delivered a dangerous cross in the 15th minute, which Everton eventually cleared, his disciplinary behaviour was a negative aspect of his first-half performance.

3. Morgan Rogers

Rogers received a yellow card for dissent in the 34th minute after using inappropriate language towards the referee. He also attempted to release Neto with a through ball in the 21st minute, but Everton's defence intercepted the pass.

4. Moises Caicedo

Caicedo committed a foul in the 8th minute and was involved in another infringement in the 13th minute. However, he nearly gave Chelsea the lead in the 41st minute when his first-time shot from mid-range struck the crossbar.