Haaland leads the way as Manchester City begin title defence with win over Chelsea

Pep Guardiola and his Manchester City The team began the defence of their title in style, securing a 2-0 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Erling Haaland, In what was his 100th appearance for the club, he marked the occasion by opening the scoring in the 18th minute with a beautiful finish over Roberto Sanchez.

It was his 91st goal for City since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2022.

The goal was a rare moment of life in a match that did not offer too many fireworks. After Haaland's opening goal, Kevin de Bruyne He fired a shot that went just wide of the area, while Sanchez made a great save from Jeremy Doku's shot goes wide.

Chelsea thought they had levelled the game just before half-time when… Nicholas Jackson took advantage of Ederson's mistake, While he was groping Cole Palmer's shot on their way.

Unfortunately for the home side, replays showed the striker was offside.

Chelsea's efforts fall short

Jackson He continued his push after the break, firing a first-time volley straight into the net. Edersonbut City held on to their lead despite Chelsea's best efforts.

Pep's men He replied by approaching Haaland, while Rico Lewis He saw a goal disallowed.

The visiting team's doubts were dispelled in the 84th minute when Mateo Kovacic, Playing in the absence of Rodri, he fired at his former team.

The Croatian, who was one of the best players on the pitch, fired a curling shot from outside the area that left Sanchez Without any chance.

City's next game is at home to newly promoted Ipswich Town, while Chelsea travel to face Wolves.