Manchester City kicked off their Premier League title defense with a convincing 2-0 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Erling Haaland marked his 100th appearance for the champions with his 91st goal, scoring in the 18th minute after being expertly set up by Bernardo Silva.
Haaland forced his way between Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana before finishing neatly past Robert Sanchez.
Former Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic sealed the victory for Manchester City six minutes from time, racing through a disorganized Chelsea midfield and thumping the ball into Sanchez’s net.
Despite some promising attacking moves from Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and recent signing Pedro Neto, Chelsea were largely outclassed by their more composed visitors.
The defeat marked a losing start for Chelsea under new manager Enzo Maresca, while Manchester City demonstrated their title credentials with a dominant display.
Haaland’s goal-scoring form continues to impress, and Kovacic’s late strike ensured a comfortable win for the champions.
