Chelsea defeat Everton 2-0 in Premier League week seven opener

Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was taken to the hospital following a severe head-on collision with Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite during a Premier League match. The incident occurred when Martinez ventured off his line to secure an aerial cross, while Branthwaite aimed to challenge for the ball. Both players remained on the ground, causing immediate concern, but Branthwaite was able to get to his feet after a brief period.

Martinez, however, lay motionless on his back, leading to immediate medical attention. The goalkeeper received oxygen on the pitch and was subsequently carried off the field on a stretcher roughly ten minutes after the collision. Despite appearing conscious and moving his arms during the stretcher ride, Martinez was replaced in the 73rd minute by Belgian reserve goalkeeper Mike Penders, marking his debut in a Premier League match.

Everton's Pedro Neto capitalized on the absence of Martinez, scoring his second goal of the game to double Chelsea's lead and secure a 2-0 victory. While the win provided a morale boost, the focus quickly shifted to Martinez's injury, with his teammates expressing concern and support for their team-mate. Neto dedicated the triumph to Martinez, stating that the victory was in his honor and that he was wishing him a speedy recovery.