Palmer revels in Chelsea comeback against Leeds as attacking stars hit top gear
By Joel Masibo, September 10, 2026Cole Palmer says he is enjoying his football again after producing a decisive second-half display as Chelsea fought back from two goals down to beat Leeds United 6-3 in the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday evening, September 9, 2026.
Palmer started the match on the bench but was introduced at the interval by head coach Xabi Alonso as Chelsea looked to overturn a difficult situation at Stamford Bridge.
The visitors extended their lead shortly after the restart when Brenden Aaronson made it 2-0, but Palmer’s arrival changed the momentum of the contest.
The England international reduced the deficit from the penalty spot after Pep Chavarria brought down a Chelsea player in the area. Just 90 seconds later, Palmer struck again, using a cleverly disguised finish to bring Chelsea level at 2-2.
Pedro Neto then completed the turnaround with another accurate effort, giving Chelsea three goals in a remarkable seven-minute spell.
Chelsea went on to add three more goals and secure a convincing 6-3 victory, extending their impressive start to the campaign.
Palmer revealed that Alonso demanded greater intensity from his players during the half-time team talk after an underwhelming opening 45 minutes.
“Up the intensity, play a bit more, come more alive because I think the first half was flat,” said Palmer.
“Everyone agreed in the changing room, so we stepped up.”
The midfielder admitted the first half had been unusual for Chelsea, but praised Leeds for making the match difficult.
“I probably haven’t seen a half like that for a while. Leeds are a good team, tough game, but we needed to pull through, and we did.”
Palmer’s contribution further underlined his return to form this season. The Chelsea No. 10 has already scored four goals, while the team have found the net 16 times across their opening five matches.
His confidence appears to be growing alongside Chelsea’s attacking threat, with Palmer enjoying his combination with fellow forwards Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro.
“You can see I’m enjoying my football,” he said. “Morgz (Morgan Rogers), Joao (Pedro), and I- all the attacking players- we’re enjoying it.
Despite the emphatic victory over Leeds, Palmer believes Chelsea still have room to improve as they prepare for their next fixture against Hull City on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
“We’ve still got a bit to go. We’re getting results which is the main thing, and now it’s on to Hull on Saturday,” he said.