Chelsea Fall 3-0 as Alonso Admits Defensive Struggles

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso said his team lacked consistency and competitive mentality after a 3-0 Premier League defeat at Brentford. The match was closely contested until Jaidon Anthony scored unmarked from a corner in the 61st minute, after which Igor Thiago and Fabio Carvalho completed Brentford’s rout. Alonso said Chelsea must improve in set pieces, defensive duels, buildup play and game control, acknowledging that the team lost its shape and failed to compete for the full 90 minutes. The defeat continued Chelsea’s defensive problems under Alonso, including conceding at least two goals in each of his first five league matches and allowing four set-piece goals in that span. Alonso described the situation as part of a rebuilding process but said the team must develop the understanding and resilience needed to maintain its standards throughout matches.