Cole Palmer assisted the opener and scored the winner against Fulham in the 2026–27 Premier League opener.
Palmer set up João Pedro after 31 seconds and then scored Chelsea’s third goal as the Blues defeated Fulham 3–2. His goal arrived four minutes into the second half and proved decisive after Fulham later reduced the deficit.
The victory came in a west London derby at Craven Cottage. Morgan Rogers scored Chelsea’s second goal, while Fulham’s replies came from Josh King and Gonzalo García. Palmer’s combination of an assist and a goal made him Chelsea’s standout performer.
Palmer joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2023 and quickly became one of the club’s main creative players. His left-footed finishing, passing and penalty-taking have made him a frequent source of goals and assists. He was subsequently voted Premier League Player of the Matchweek for the opening round.