Haaland, Kovacic find the net as Enzo Maresca loses first game as Chelsea manager

Chelsea welcomed Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, August 18, for the highly anticipated Premier League Gameweek 1 clash. Although the game was closer than their preseason encounter, the champions still emerged with a comfortable victory.

Manchester City was without key midfielder Rodri due to injury, but Rico Lewis stepped in, to partner Mateo Kovacic in central midfield. Chelsea, on the other hand, was missing only club captain Reece James, who was sidelined due to injury and suspension.

Guardiola’s side had near-total control in the first half, although Maresca’s team began to find their rhythm toward the end of the first 45 minutes. The second half was more balanced, but the Blues were still unable to score.

Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 18th minute, giving the away side the lead. Mateo Kovacic secured the victory for Manchester City with a goal in the 84th minute, effectively ending any hopes Chelsea had for a comeback.

As a result, Manchester City now sits in fourth place in the Premier League, while Chelsea drops to 17th. Although several teams are on three points, City has the second-best goal difference (+2), tied with Liverpool and Arsenal.

Brighton leads the table with the highest goal difference of +3.