Fulham completed the 2026–27 Premier League opening round by hosting Chelsea on 24 August.
The match was played on Monday evening at Craven Cottage, making Fulham versus Chelsea the final fixture of Matchweek 1. Chelsea won 3–2 in a lively London derby.
The game brought together two managers beginning new Premier League assignments in England. Xabi Alonso took charge of Chelsea, while Álvaro Arbeloa managed Fulham. Both clubs therefore entered the season with notable changes in the dugout.
Fulham’s position as the final host was determined by the published opening-round schedule. The other fixtures were spread across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with the Monday match providing the round’s conclusion. Chelsea’s victory gave them three points, while Fulham began the campaign without one.