LONDON — Reigning champions Manchester City defeated Chelsea 2-0 at Stamford Bridge on Sunday in the opening match of the 2024/25 Premier League season, spoiling Enzo Maresca’s debut as Chelsea manager.
Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 18th minute, notching his 91st goal for Manchester City. The Norwegian striker capitalized on a loose ball, holding off two defenders before chipping the ball over Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.
Former Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic sealed the victory in the 84th minute, weaving past Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo before firing past Sanchez.
The match began evenly, with both sides fielding changed lineups from the previous season. Chelsea’s Wesley Fofana sent an early effort over the bar from a corner, while City’s Jeremy Doku missed wide with a left-footed shot.
Chelsea thought they had equalized just before halftime when Nicolas Jackson found the net after Ederson spilled Cole Palmer’s shot, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
The home side continued to press for an equalizer in the second half, with new signing Pedro Neto nearly scoring shortly after his introduction around the hour mark. Only a crucial clearance from City’s Rico Lewis prevented a tap-in at the back post.
Manchester City also had a goal disallowed when Rico Lewis found the net after the hour mark, but referee Anthony Taylor spotted a foul by Haaland in the buildup.
City manager Pep Guardiola made a tactical change at halftime, replacing debutant Savinho with Phil Foden. The substitution helped City maintain control in midfield and create more scoring opportunities.
The result marks a challenging start for Maresca, who took over as Chelsea manager this summer. Despite the loss, Chelsea showed promise against the defending champions, remaining competitive for much of the match.
For Manchester City, the victory sets a positive tone as they begin their campaign for a fifth consecutive Premier League title. Haaland’s early-season form and Kovacic’s impact against his former club will be encouraging signs for Guardiola.
The match was played in front of a capacity crowd at Stamford Bridge, with fans eager to see how both teams would perform in their season opener.
Next week, Chelsea will travel to face Brentford, while Manchester City will host Newcastle United as the Premier League season continues.
