The Black Cats took advantage of a disputed penalty decision to secure only their second league victory of the season, ending a difficult run of results and moving away from the foot of the table.
Chelsea, meanwhile, suffered their fourth defeat in 10 league matches under head coach Xabi Alonso, missing the opportunity to strengthen their position in the top four.
Le Fée decides the contest from the spot
The decisive moment arrived in the 36th minute when Sunderland were awarded a penalty following a coming together between striker Brian Brobbey and Chelsea defender Levi Colwill.
The decision attracted controversy, with questions raised about the nature and location of the contact between the two players. Brobbey appeared to go down inside the penalty area, although replays left uncertainty over whether Colwill had made sufficient contact to warrant the decision.
Le Fée took responsibility for the resulting spot-kick and confidently sent the ball past the goalkeeper to give Sunderland a 1-0 advantage.
That strike proved enough to separate the teams.
Chelsea fail to find an equaliser
Chelsea attempted to respond after falling behind but struggled to turn their efforts into a goal.
Head coach Xabi Alonso introduced Brazilian youngster Estêvão at half-time in an attempt to inject greater attacking threat into his side.
The winger played the entire second half, but his introduction did not produce the breakthrough Chelsea needed.
Sunderland maintained their defensive organisation and protected their narrow advantage through the closing stages. The home supporters were eventually rewarded as the referee brought the contest to an end after stoppage time.
Sunderland gain important Premier League relief
The victory represents a significant boost for Sunderland, who had endured a difficult spell in the league and entered the match near the bottom of the standings.
Their second win in 10 Premier League appearances lifted them away from the last position and provided encouragement ahead of their next fixtures.
Chelsea will be disappointed with the outcome, having suffered another setback in their pursuit of a higher league position. Their fourth defeat in 10 matches leaves them fifth with 16 points.
For Sunderland, however, the result will be remembered for three valuable points earned against one of the Premier League's leading clubs.
Match details
• Sunderland: Enzo Le Fée 36' (pen)
• Chelsea: No goals
Final score: Sunderland 1-0 Chelsea
Competition: Premier League
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
Venue: Stadium of Light, Sunderland