5 days ago
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Manchester City were denied a return to winning ways as a managerless Chelsea struck deep into stoppage time to claim a dramatic 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium.
Enzo Fernandez was the unlikely late hero, scrambling home in the final moments to stun the home crowd and halt City’s momentum.
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The result means City are now six points behind Arsenal in second place after the leaders had earlier extended their advantage with a win.
Chelsea arrived in Manchester amid turmoil following the shock departure of Enzo Maresca, with under-21s coach Calum McFarlane placed in interim charge.
The visitors set up cautiously and succeeded in frustrating City for long spells, slowing the tempo and limiting space between the lines.
City dominated possession but struggled to turn control into clear chances during a subdued opening period.
Phil Foden twice went close before Bernardo Silva curled an effort over from the edge of the area.
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Erling Haaland’s influence grew late in the first half and he came closest when a powerful left-footed strike crashed against the post.
The pressure eventually told just before the break as Tijjani Reijnders capitalised on a loose ball to fire past Filip Jorgensen from a tight angle.
That goal appeared to put City on course to close the gap on Arsenal after dropped points earlier in the week.
Chelsea responded positively after the interval and Pedro Neto should have levelled when he lifted an effort over the bar from close range on the counter.
City remained dangerous but failed to find the second goal that would have settled the contest.
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Haaland saw another effort blocked while Foden and Silva continued to probe without reward.
Injuries to Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias disrupted City’s defensive rhythm late on and gave Chelsea renewed belief.
That belief was rewarded in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
Malo Gusto surged down the right and delivered a teasing cross that was not properly dealt with by the City back line.
Fernandez reacted quickest at the far post, forcing the ball over the line after an initial scramble.
The equaliser sparked wild celebrations among the Chelsea players and travelling supporters.
It was another damaging setback in the title race for City, extending a run of dropped points at a critical stage.
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Pep Guardiola’s side had won eight consecutive league games at home before this draw.
Chelsea, meanwhile, left Manchester with encouragement after a turbulent week and a performance built on resilience and organisation.
McFarlane’s first match in interim charge could hardly have delivered a more dramatic statement.
Arsenal now hold a commanding advantage at the summit while City are left to reflect on a costly missed opportunity.
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