Hakim Ziyech inspires Chelsea again as Blues overtake Crystal Palace with last-minute goal to avoid slipping into top four

Hakim Ziyech saved Chelsea with a late goal in their 1-0 win over Crystal Palace to cement the Blues’ place in the top four.

The Moroccan scored his third consecutive Premier League goal with a first volley from close range in the 89th minute to seal a priceless win for Thomas Tuchel’s side.

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Back in the top flight for the first time since January 23 after winning the Club World Cup, Chelsea had failed to win four of their last five matches.

A draw at Selhurst Park would have had the Blues looking nervously over their shoulders, with Arsenal suddenly able to catch up with them due to the games in progress.

However, despite a disappointing performance, Ziyech’s latest strike puts eight points between the Blues in third and West Ham in fifth, while the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Wolves will feel less of a threat.

Ziyech, as has been the case for the past few weeks, was Chelsea’s best player and also had a second-half goal disallowed.

Romelu Lukaku was ruled offside in the build-up as Ziyech fired home from a rebound.

Palace, meanwhile, will have many missed chances to regret, as Wilfried Zaha and Michael Olise repelled glorious opportunities.

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Missing a point leaves Patrick Vieira’s side eight points above the drop zone in 13th.

Chelsea will turn their attention to a big week, with Lille in the Champions League Round of 16 on Tuesday and then Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday.

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