August 12th arrived quickly, marking the start of the 2017-2018 Premier League season.
As the reigning champions, Chelsea were set to host Burnley at Stamford Bridge. But for coach Antonio Conte, there was a cloud of concern hanging over the new season.
Eden Hazard, Chelsea's second-most important attacker, was injured.
During a training session, Hazard strained his cruciate ligament. After an examination by the team doctor, it was confirmed that he would be sidelined for at least a month. This injury also quashed Real Madrid's hopes of signing him during the summer transfer window. There was no choice now—the Belgian star would remain with Chelsea.
At the pre-match press conference, reporters eagerly questioned Conte about his thoughts on the season ahead.
Conte, with a serious look, responded:
"Obviously, our goal this season is clear: we aim to defend our Premier League title. Of course, we'll also fight hard on all fronts, especially in the Champions League.
"That said, the most important thing for us right now is to stay focused and grounded. We need to approach each game with determination.
"Tonight, we're facing a Burnley side that's in good form. I expect they'll challenge our defense, but I trust every Chelsea player will give their all to protect our home turf and start the season strong."
Later, Burnley manager Sean Dyche shared his thoughts:
"It's an honor to go up against a team like Chelsea. Let's be honest, it's incredibly tough to win at Stamford Bridge, but we'll give it everything we've got, no matter what."
8 PM - Stamford Bridge
The stadium was awash in a sea of blue as Chelsea fans packed the stands, their chants echoing long before kickoff. Among the cheers, one name rang out louder than any other—Su Luo.
There was no doubt about it—Su Luo had become the beloved hero of every Chelsea fan.
On the live streaming platform, commentator Zhan Jun began announcing the lineups for both teams:
"Good evening, everyone! Welcome to the first round of the 2017-2018 Premier League season. Tonight, Chelsea, the defending champions, will face Burnley at home.
"Let's start with Chelsea's lineup, set up in a 3-4-2-1 formation:
"In goal, it's Courtois.
"The back three: Rudiger, David Luiz, and Gary Cahill.
"In midfield: Azpilicueta, Kante, Fabregas, and Marcos Alonso.
"In the attacking midfield positions: Willian and Su Luo.
"And up front, the lone striker: Lukaku."
He continued with Burnley's lineup:
"For Burnley, manager Sean Dyche has opted for a 4-5-1 formation to strengthen their defense:
"The back four: Ward, Tarkowski, Ben Mee, and Lowton.
"In midfield: Brady, Jack Cork, Defour, Hendrick, and Gudmundsson.
"Up front as the lone striker: Vokes."
As the starting players from both sides took to the pitch, the Chelsea fans erupted in applause, their excitement palpable.
After two long months without a game at Stamford Bridge, the fans were more than ready for a thrilling night of football.
As the fans roared, the match kicked off.
Chelsea, playing at home, were eager to score an early goal to establish their lead.
Right from the start, Chelsea pressed forward aggressively!
Midfielder Cesc Fàbregas received a throw from Courtois and immediately surged up the field with the ball, catching Burnley's defenders off guard!
Suddenly, Burnley's midfielders—Jack Cork, Defour, and Hendrick—closed in on Fàbregas, forming a wall in front of him. But Fàbregas, always composed, quickly assessed the situation and stopped his forward run. Rather than dribbling through, he sent a precise through ball into the open space ahead.
It was clear—aside from Su Luo, Cesc Fàbregas was the only player on the Chelsea squad capable of such exceptional passing.
In an instant, the ball sliced through Burnley's defense, landing perfectly at Willian's feet.
As a top-class winger, Willian didn't hesitate for a second. He sprinted down the flank, showing off his blistering speed and leaving Burnley's defenders trailing behind him.
In a flash, Willian was already inside Burnley's penalty area.
On the sidelines, Burnley manager Sean Dyche grew visibly anxious.
"Get back! Defend!" Dyche shouted. "Don't let them—"
But before Dyche could finish his sentence, Willian fired a perfect pass into the center of the box, straight to Su Luo.
Although Lukaku had positioned himself well as the striker, Willian clearly had more faith in Su Luo's ability to finish the play.
Standing just outside the box, Su Luo wasted no time. He struck the ball with precision, sending it soaring through the air, curling gracefully like a falling leaf.
The ball flew over the Stamford Bridge pitch—and into the back of the net!
Burnley's goalkeeper, Tom Heaton, dived to make the save, but it was no use.
Su Luo's shot was too well-placed, leaving Heaton with no chance.
Chelsea had their goal.
"And it's Su Luo again!"
"Su Luo scores his first Premier League goal of the season—and what a beauty it was!"
"He left Burnley's defenders with no chance whatsoever!" shouted the excited commentator.
Beside him, Director Zhang couldn't help but praise, "That was a world-class strike, so calm and precise!"
He continued, "Burnley's defense was clearly unfocused. Su Luo should never have been left so open in such a dangerous position."
After the goal, Su Luo sprinted toward Willian, the two embracing in celebration, their excitement radiating across the pitch.
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