On January 18, 2026, Chelsea ended a six‑match winless streak with a 2‑0 victory over Brentford at Stamford Bridge, marking manager Rosinia’s Premier League debut. João Pedro opened the scoring in the 26th minute, and Call Hudson‑Odoi sealed the win in the 68th, delivering the Blues their first three points of the season.
Rosinia’s Impact and Tactical Shifts
Defensive Stability and Quick‑Transition Play
After dismissing former coach Enzo Maresca, Chelsea appointed Rosinia to reset the squad’s approach. His philosophy emphasizes a high press, rapid ball recovery, and exploiting width with overlapping full‑backs. In the Brentford match, Chelsea pressed high in the first half, forcing a turnover that led to João Pedro’s long‑range strike from the right flank.
Midfield Domination and Inside‑Cutting Moves
In the second half, Chelsea tightened midfield control, allowing Hudson‑Odoi to cut inside from the left. At the 68th minute, Rosinia directed an “inside‑cut” from the wing, resulting in a low shot that slipped under the goalkeeper’s foot and secured the 2‑0 lead.
Brentford’s Defensive Struggles
Key Issues Revealed
Brentford’s inability to cope with the press led to frequent ball loss, especially on their left side where João Pedro and Hudson‑Odoi found space. The loss exposed a lack of organization in the back line and a need for improved set‑piece execution.
League Table Implications
The win narrows the gap to league leaders Manchester City to just two points, reviving Chelsea’s push for a top‑four finish. Conversely, Brentford slipped from 5th to 7th, turning their campaign into a battle for European qualification.
Key Storylines to Watch
- Rosinia’s tactical evolution: How his press‑and‑counter system fares against higher‑ranked opponents.
- Emerging talents: Whether João Pedro and Hudson‑Odoi become consistent goal‑scoring threats under Rosinia.
- Brentford’s recovery: Adjustments in defensive shape and set‑piece routines ahead of their next clash with Wolves.
