In a thrilling match at Stamford Bridge, Cole Palmer’s stoppage-time penalty dashed the hopes of his former club, Manchester City, for a victory against Chelsea.
The game showcased exceptional quality as the fortunes of both teams swung back and forth.
City believed they had secured all three points when Rodri’s shot from the edge of the area deflected off Thiago Silva and found its way past Chelsea’s goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, with just four minutes remaining.
However, Chelsea, displaying remarkable resilience, refused to accept defeat. Cole Palmer, a summer signing for £40 million from Pep Guardiola’s side, maintained his composure amidst the chaos and confidently beat Ederson from the penalty spot, leaving City with just a one-point lead over Liverpool at the summit of the Premier League.
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The reigning champions took the lead in a controversial manner after 25 minutes when they were awarded a penalty due to Marc Cucurella’s challenge on Erling Haaland, despite Chelsea’s protests that Cucurella had been fouled first.
Haaland converted the penalty with ease, but Chelsea swiftly leveled the score four minutes later when Brazilian center-back Silva nodded home Conor Gallagher’s corner at the near post.
Chelsea surged ahead when Raheem Sterling, formerly of City, scored after 37 minutes, capitalizing on Josko Gvardiol’s mistake and turning in Reece James’ cross.
Nevertheless, City managed to equalize just before halftime when the unmarked Manuel Akanji headed in Bernardo Silva’s delivery.
City regained the lead two minutes into the second half when Haaland scrambled in Julian Alvarez’s cross at the far post.
Chelsea, however, showed their fighting spirit once more and deservedly drew level in the 67th minute when Nicolas Jackson seized the opportunity after Ederson parried Gallagher’s low drive.
City seemed to have secured victory with Rodri’s stroke of luck, but late penalty drama, caused by a foul from defender Ruben Dias on Chelsea substitute Armando Broja, left the honors even in this entertaining and eventful encounter.