Erling Haaland Scores in City's 2-0 Win Over Chelsea

Erling Haaland celebrated his 100th appearance for Manchester City by scoring the opening goal in their 2-0 victory against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The Premier League champions kicked off their title defence with Haaland, who joined from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, netting his 91st City goal in the 18th minute. He calmly finished over Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.

Mateo Kovacic, a former Chelsea midfielder secured the win late on by curling a shot from just outside the penalty area. City controlled most of the match, limiting the moments of high drama. Kevin de Bruyne nearly added a second goal shortly after Erling Haaland opener but his effort curled just wide of the target. Nicolas Jackson, after seizing on a fumbled shot from Cole Palmer by City’s goalkeeper Ederson, believed he had equalized for Chelsea.

However, the officials disallowed the goal for offside. Jackson later fired a first-time volley straight at Ederson as Chelsea pushed for an equalizer but couldn’t find the breakthrough. City delivered a steady performance despite facing pre-season disruptions with key players like Phil Foden, John Stones and Kyle Walker returning late after international duties.

Pep Guardiola handed summer signing Savinho his debut, but he had to substitute the Brazilian winger at halftime due to a knock. Mateo Kovacic took charge of the midfield in Rodri’s absence and secured the win with his goal. Under new manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea struggled to find rhythm despite spending £185m on 11 new signings this summer.

None of these new players started the match but four debutants including Portugal winger Pedro Neto, entered the game in the second half. Neto’s introduction briefly energized Chelsea but the team’s overall performance remained disjointed. Chelsea showed some spirit in the second half, giving Maresca a few positives to build on despite the loss.