Manchester City vs Chelsea: City Comeback Kings
In a thrilling Premier League clash, Manchester City came from behind to defeat Chelsea 3-1 at the Etihad Stadium. The win saw City climb into fourth place in the table, while Chelsea dropped to sixth.
Chelsea took an early lead through Abdukodir Khusanov’s own goal, but City equalized through Erling Haaland before halftime. Haaland added a second in the second half, before Phil Foden sealed the win in the 87th minute.
Khusanov’s Nightmare Start
Abdukodir Khusanov’s Premier League debut could not have gone much worse. The 20-year-old defender’s misplayed pass led directly to Noni Madueke’s opening goal for Chelsea in the third minute, and one minute later he found himself in the book for a foul on Cole Palmer.
His yellow card in the fourth minute was the earliest booking for a player making their PL debut since Lee Peltier in the third minute for Cardiff against Bournemouth in August 2018.
City Take Control
Despite Khusanov’s early error, Manchester City settled into the match and dictated play. They created the better chances and marginally dominated the contest thanks to a superior second-half performance.
Chelsea did not heed the warning signs that preceded all three goals, but this was a much more measured performance from Pep Guardiola’s side after the midweek chaos they endured at the Parc de Princes.
Haaland Continues to Impress
Erling Haaland was once again the star for Manchester City. The Norwegian striker scored twice to take his tally for the season to 18, just one behind Mohamed Salah in the race for the Golden Boot.
Haaland is now the joint-highest scoring player in the Premier League this calendar year, with six goals in 2025.
Chelsea’s Woes Continue
Chelsea’s defeat to Manchester City was their fourth in a row in all competitions. They have now won just one of their last eight Premier League matches, and are in danger of missing out on a top-four finish.
Manager Enzo Maresca is under pressure, with fans calling for his dismissal. The Italian has been criticized for his team’s poor form and lack of consistency.
Conclusion
Manchester City’s comeback win over Chelsea was a reminder of their quality and strength in depth. The reigning Premier League champions are now just three points behind third-placed Nottingham Forest, and will be confident of securing a top-four finish.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are in a rut. They have lost their way under Maresca, and their season is in danger of petering out.
