In a match that looked destined to be a routine victory for the reigning champions, Enzo Fernández snatched a point at the absolute death, leaving Pep Guardiola fuming and Manchester City’s title hopes hanging by a thread.
The Context: A Club in Chaos
Coming into Sunday’s clash, Chelsea were a team in total disarray. Following the shock New Year’s Eve departure of Enzo Maresca, the Blues arrived at the Etihad under the guidance of Under-21 coach Calum McFarlane. Nobody—literally nobody—gave the interim boss a prayer against a City side looking to close the gap on league-leaders Arsenal.
The Breakthrough: Reijnders’ Moment of Magic
For 40 minutes, Chelsea’s makeshift defense held firm, but the pressure finally told. Tijjani Reijnders continued his red-hot form, rifling a sensational strike into the roof of the net in the 42nd minute. It was his third goal in three starts, and it felt like the floodgates were about to open.
City dominated the second half, with Erling Haaland hitting the post and Rayan Cherki terrorizing the wings. But as the clock ticked into stoppage time, the score remained a precarious 1-0.
The Twist: Enzo Fernández Stuns the Etihad
With six minutes of added time signaled, Chelsea threw everything forward. In the 94th minute, Malo Gusto delivered a teasing low cross that bypassed everyone except Enzo Fernández.
After his first attempt was brilliantly saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma, the Argentine midfielder bundled the rebound over the line. The away end erupted into pure pandemonium as Fernández leaped into the crowd to celebrate a goal that felt like much more than just an equalizer.
The Fallout: Arsenal’s Big Win?
This result is a catastrophe for Manchester City’s title defense. They now sit six points behind Arsenal, having dropped points in two consecutive games. For Chelsea, it’s a heroic stand that proves there is still life in this squad, even without a permanent manager.
Final Score: Manchester City 1 - 1 Chelsea Goals: Reijnders (42') | Fernández (90+4')