Time is running out for Crystal Palace.
Only five minutes remain before the end of the first half.
Equalizing the score in such a short time won't be easy.
Every player must apply pressure on the opponent as quickly as possible.
Benteke steps up once again.
Especially on the attacking end, he is playing with remarkable intensity.
During this period, Crystal Palace's midfielders also start gaining more control of the game.
Milivojevic, after securing possession of the ball—
Wastes no time.
He makes a quick decision.
A precise through ball is sent forward.
In an instant, the ball cuts through Chelsea's defense like a scalpel, perfectly finding Benteke up front.
Benteke—the heart of Crystal Palace's attack.
His individual skill needs no introduction.
This time—
As soon as he controls the ball, he doesn't hesitate.
Using his speed advantage and strong physique—
He shields the defender and pushes forward!
Then—
Boom!
Benteke bodied Gary Cahill!
Cahill is a physically strong defender, but tonight—
Against Benteke, he has no advantage whatsoever.
Benteke shrugs him off completely!
And the next second—
Having shaken off Cahill, Benteke charges towards goal at full speed!
Of course—
Chelsea's defense is not that easy to break down.
Both Christensen and Azpilicueta react instantly, rushing in to stop him.
Benteke doesn't wait.
Seeing the defenders closing in—
He takes the shot immediately!!
Yes.
Benteke knows his own strengths well. He understands that in his current form, it won't be easy to break through Chelsea's defense any further.
Thus, his best option—
Strike while he still has space!
A moment of brilliance.
Benteke unleashes a powerful volley!
Like a cannonball—
The ball rockets toward goal!
Now, it's a test for the goalkeeper.
Courtois has been focused all night.
Seeing Benteke's movement, he reacts instantly.
No panic.
A perfectly timed dive!
Courtois' reflexes are world-class.
Always quick to react, he executes the save flawlessly.
The danger is cleared!
For now, Chelsea's goal remains secure.
Time continues to tick away—
And there's not much left for Crystal Palace.
Final minute of the first half.
If Crystal Palace wants to win, their top priority is to keep pushing Chelsea's defense.
This task now falls to Su Luo.
Since Crystal Palace's last goal, Su Luo has been relatively quiet on the field—
But!!
At this moment—
He understands the situation perfectly.
With Crystal Palace throwing everything forward—
Chelsea will have the opportunity to launch a counterattack.
This is where Su Luo shines.
And indeed—
Su Luo makes the right decision.
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