Erling Haaland marked his 100th match with Manchester City, a significant milestone that he celebrated with a 0-2 victory over Chelsea. On a day that reflected the solidity of Pep Guardiola’s team, City began their title defense with strength, although the game was not without challenges. The victory was crucial for City, especially at a time when the season is just beginning, and the team is still finding its best form.

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Despite a strong start with a goal from Haaland in the 17th minute, Manchester City showed signs of inconsistency during the first half. The lack of clarity in attack and vulnerability in defense left the team exposed to Chelsea’s incursions, although the difference between the Norwegian striker and the home team’s attackers, like Nkunku and Nico Jackson, was evident.

Chelsea, still undergoing restructuring under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, didn’t manage to challenge Ederson much until the end of the first half. Cole Palmer was one of the players who showed some offensive potential for the London team, but his goal was ruled out for offside, leaving Chelsea without an answer in the first half.

In the second half, City controlled the game and dominated Chelsea, which could only muster a brief attacking wave led by Pedro Neto. Despite Maresca’s attempts to add freshness to the attack with the debut of Marc Guiu and other substitutions, Chelsea failed to reverse the scoreline.

Manchester City’s victory was sealed with a second goal from Mateo Kovacic, securing the 0-2 win. Haaland, with 91 goals in his first 100 matches with City, demonstrated his importance by opening the scoring, and the title defense continues effectively. City’s solid performance, though not without difficulties, underscores their potential and dominance in the Premier League.