New coach Xabi Alonso, the former star midfielder, got the perfect start to his job at the big club Chelsea.
But it wasn't without drama.
After a blistering start with Joao Pedro's 1-0 lead after 31 seconds, the home team equalized in the London derby through Josh King.
Chelsea's new signing Morgan Rogers, the England World Cup-winning winger from Aston Villa, cost 1.5 billion kronor in transfer fees. He and star Cole Palmer ensured that Chelsea took a 3-1 lead.
Gonzalo Garcia reduced the deficit in the 54th minute and ensured that the derby was exciting until the end.
Chelsea, who only finished tenth in the Premier League last season, were finally able to hold on and take three points at Craven Cottage.
