Chelsea’s set-piece record is worth a closer look after their latest defeat to Tottenham, especially as new coach Austin MacPhee is now in charge. The Blues conceded from a corner in the 2-0 loss, with goalkeeper Mike Penders being at fault after punching the ball into his own net.

MacPhee joined Chelsea from Aston Villa this summer for an undisclosed fee reportedly worth less than £1 million. The Scotsman took over the touchline role from Bernardo Cueva, with the former Brentford coach moving into a more analytical position behind the scenes.

MacPhee arrived with a strong reputation, having also worked with Portugal under Roberto Martinez for several years. However, Chelsea’s set-piece numbers this season present a mixed picture of their progress at both ends of the pitch.

Chelsea’s set-piece stats in 2026/27 show a dramatic contrast

Chelsea’s set-piece numbers in 2026/27 tell two very different stories compared to last season. According to WhoScored, the Blues scored 13 goals from set pieces in the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, ranking 10th in the division, while conceding 17 goals left them 14th for defensive set-piece performance.

This season, Chelsea have climbed to joint-top for set-piece goals scored, with six in their first eight league games. Their attacking threat from dead-ball situations has clearly improved, giving Xabi Alonso’s side another valuable way to find the net.

However, the Blues’ defensive figures are concerning, to say the least. They have also conceded six set-piece goals, leaving them bottom of the Premier League standings. In fact, that is two more than any other team has conceded so far this season.

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LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 04: Estevao of Chelsea celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on October 04, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Mike Penders and Emi Martinez’s goalkeeping stats compared

Chelsea’s set-piece struggles also bring Mike Penders’ goalkeeping stats into focus, with the youngster ranking below average in two key categories in the 2026/27 Premier League season. According to Opta’s data, the Belgian sits in the 41st percentile for punches and the 26th percentile for crosses claimed per 90 minutes.

That said, these figures cover all crosses and punching actions, not just those from set pieces. Penders has also had limited playing time this season, coming on for Emi Martinez against Everton before playing the full 90 minutes against Tottenham.

At 6ft 7in, Penders has the physical attributes to be a strong aerial presence, making his low ranking for crosses claimed particularly interesting. His performances over the coming weeks should offer a clearer picture of whether he can help Chelsea become more reliable from defensive set pieces.