Mateo Kovacic helped Manchester Metropolis puncture any new-season optimism at Stamford Bridge by touchdown the killer blow close to the tip of Sunday’s 2-0 win over Chelsea.
The reigning Premier League champions led by Erling Haaland’s first-half strike however needed to stand up to some strain to keep up their lead. Nevertheless, with round six minutes of regular time remaining, Kovacic ended his former membership’s hopes of getting a consequence from its season opener with a powerful particular person effort.
The Croatian midfielder collected a unfastened ball after some sloppy passing by the Chelsea backline earlier than speeding towards the sting of the field and scoring with a intelligent near-post shot.
Beats two and bends it in! 🙌
Sensational, @mateokovacic8 💫 pic.twitter.com/lCHyyhu06X
— Manchester Metropolis (@ManCity) August 18, 2024
Kovacic’s aim means Metropolis are the primary aspect in Premier League historical past to win 10 straight video games by two or extra targets. This win wasn’t as simple as some towards the tip of their title march final season, although, because the power and aggression from the likes of Rico Lewis and Kovacic have been instrumental in conserving Chelsea at bay.
The hosts had 10 makes an attempt on aim, with the perfect likelihood falling to Nicolas Jackson simply after an hour. The Senegalese striker twisted to hit a close-range volley straight at Ederson. Jackson additionally had a aim dominated out for offside close to the tip of the opening half.
Nevertheless it was finally a deserved victory for Pep Guardiola’s group. Metropolis are chasing an unprecedented fifth consecutive top-flight crown.
“This group is so hungry, and it is a pleasure to be part of it and win titles,” Kovacic informed Sky Sports activities.
