Chelsea clinch Premier League title as Eden Hazard seals win

Chelsea has secured their first Premier League title in five years after a closely fought 1-0 win against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.

Jose Mourinho’s men needed one more victory to make sure of the title, and a vital header from player of the season Eden Hazard ensured the three points for Chelsea.

Chelsea started slowly and it was Crystal Palace who seemed the most intent on attacking in the early stages, but nevertheless Chelsea controlled the ball for most of the first half. The home side still created the most chances, Juan Cuadrado firing over early in the first half.

After a laboured opening 44 minutes, Hazard won a penalty on the stroke of half time after he was felled inside the penalty area by Palace midfielder Crystal Palace. Hazard took the penalty himself, but tamely fired the spot-kick straight at Palace keeper Julian Speroni. However, the Belgian was the first to react as he headed home the rebound to send the Stamford Bridge faithful into raptures.

But Chelsea’s London neighbors Crystal Palace came close to spoiling the party as Alan Pardew’s men failed to capitalise on several half chances. Branislav Ivanovic came close to putting the result beyond doubt but Chelsea were happy to take the single-goal victory to seal the title.

The win secures Chelsea their first Premier League title since 2010 and the first Premier League title since Jose Mourinho’s return. The win also gives Chelsea an unassailable 16-point lead over second placed Manchester City with three matches to go.