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

Pep Guardiola and his Manchester Metropolis aspect started their title defence in fashion, securing a 2-0 victory over Chelsea and Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Erling Haaland, in what was his a centesimal look for the membership, marked the event by opening the scoring on 18 minutes with a beautiful end over Robert Sanchez.

It was his 91st purpose for Metropolis since making the transfer from Borussia Dortmund in 2022.

The purpose was a uncommon second of life in a match that didn’t ship a lot when it comes to fireworks. After Haaland’s opener, Kevin de Bruyne curled a strike simply vast of the field, whereas Sanchez made an amazing save from Jeremy Doku’s deflected drive.

Chelsea thought they’d levelled proceedings simply earlier than the break when Nicolas Jackson took benefit of Ederson’s mistake, as he fumbled Cole Palmer’s shot into his path.

Sadly of the house aspect, replays confirmed the striker had stratyed offside.

Chelsea’s efforts come up brief

Jackson continued his push after the break, firing a first-time volley straight at Ederson, however Metropolis held on to their benefit regardless of Chelsea’s finest efforts.

Pep’s males responded by going shut by Haaland, whereas Rico Lewis noticed a purpose referred to as again.

Any doubts for the away aspect have been put to mattress within the 84th minute when Mateo Kovacic, enjoying within the absence of Rodri, fired dwelling towards his former aspect.

The Croatian, who was top-of-the-line gamers on the pitch, fired a curling effort from exterior the penalty space that left Sanchez with no probability.

Subsequent up for Metropolis is a house match towards newly promoted Ipswich City, whereas Chelsea will journey to tackle Wolves.