Man City Mauls Chelsea in US Finale
Manchester City delivered a pre-season pounding to Chelsea, with Erling Haaland showcasing his predatory instincts in a clinical hat-trick.
The Citizens kicked off their US tour finale with a blistering start, leaving Chelsea reeling. Jack Grealish’s opportunistic pounce on a defensive error set up Haaland for a penalty, which the Norwegian dispatched with customary aplomb. Barely moments later, a defensive howler gifted Haaland a second, leaving the Blues shell-shocked.
Stefan Ortega, the City keeper, survived a scare when Christopher Nkunku’s audacious lob narrowly missed, but it was largely one-way traffic as Pep Guardiola’s men asserted their dominance.
Oscar Bobb added a third with a composed finish before Haaland completed his treble, capitalizing on another Chelsea blunder. While Raheem Sterling managed to pull one back for his former club, and Noni Madueke added a late consolation, the damage was already done.
City exited the United States with a resounding victory and a significant boost to their morale ahead of the new season.
Player Ratings
- Stefan Ortega (6): Made a crucial save but fortunate not to concede after a howler.
- Rico Lewis (7): Impressed again at right-back, cementing his claim for a starting spot.
- Kalvin Phillips (7): Solid at center-back, but his future in midfield remains uncertain.
- Josko Gvardiol (6): Composed defensive display, backing up his claims of match fitness.
- Josh Wilson-Esbrand (6): Decent before injury forced him off, but beaten by Nkunku once.
- Mateo Kovacic (7): Growing influence in the City midfield, adding creativity and drive.
- Nico O’Reilly (7): Building momentum with each game, showcasing his talent and earning Guardiola’s praise.
- James McAtee (7): Impressed with his all-round game and provided a crucial assist for Haaland.
- Oscar Bobb (8): Star of the show with a goal and continued impressive performances.
- Jack Grealish (7): Involved in the opening goal and showed resilience against provocation.
- Erling Haaland (8): Clinical hat-trick highlights his predatory instincts and ruthless efficiency.
- Tom Galvez (6): Impressed on senior debut, showing promise as a left-back.
- Mahamadou Susoho (6): Solid cameo at right-back.
- Amar Fatah (6): Lively performance from the trialist.
- Joel Ndala (6): Showcased quick feet on the left flank.
- Scott Carson (7): Popular introduction for his second appearance.
- Justin Oboavwoduo (6): Deserved senior debut with a strong performance.
- Jacob Wright (6): Another solid cameo from the young defender.
- Stephen Mfuni, Lakyle Samuel, Callum Doyle: Limited playing time to make an impact.
Substitutes:
