Chelsea start Alonso era with exciting 3-2 win at neighbours Fulham

Chelsea began their new era under coach Xabi Alonso with a thrilling 3-2 win against Fulham, their neighboring London team, in the Premier League on Monday. The exciting front three of Joao Pedro, Morgan Rogers, and Cole Palmer all scored goals in the match. Palmer, who had struggled with injuries last season, set up Joao Pedro in the 31st second with a perfect pass, and the Brazilian scored the quickest goal in the opening round of Premier League matches in 34 years.

Fulham equalized in the 24th minute when Josh King scored against his former club, but Chelsea's Rogers then scored in the 41st minute to put the lead back. Two minutes into the second half, Palmer scored again after being fed by Pedro. The match ended with a dramatic moment when Fulham's Gonzalo Garcia headed in a 54th-minute equalizer, but Chelsea held on for the victory.

Alonso's first competitive match in charge ended well, despite the presence of his former teammate, Alvaro Arbeloa, who made his Premier League debut as a coach. The win also sees a potential opportunity for Chelsea's injured midfielder, Moises Caicedo, and new fullback Marco Palestra to prove their form.