By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 5 January 2026 - Manchester City were held to a dramatic 1-1 draw by Chelsea in Premier League action at the Etihad Stadium, with a late Enzo Fernandez strike earning Chelsea a point and proving costly for City’s title aspirations.
Deep into stoppage time, Fernandez reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box and poked home his third attempt to level the score after Manchester City had taken the lead in the first half.
The late goal ensured the points were shared and dealt a significant blow to City’s chase of leaders Arsenal.
Manchester City seemed on course for victory when Tijjani Reijnders fired in the opening goal just before half-time, giving Pep Guardiola’s side the advantage heading into the break. City dominated most of the match, creating numerous chances and largely controlling play, but they were unable to extend their lead despite several opportunities, including efforts from Erling Haaland that hit the post. Chelsea defended resolutely for long periods, soaking up pressure and hoping to snatch something late on.
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The turning point came in stoppage time when Malo Gusto’s cross deflected into Fernandez’s path, and after his first two efforts were thwarted, the Argentine midfielder’s third shot found the back of the net to break City hearts and secure a draw for Chelsea. The result means City now lie six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal, a significant gap so early in the year that adds pressure on Guardiola’s squad as they look to claw back ground in the title race.
For Chelsea, the point will feel like a small triumph amid managerial uncertainty and recent struggles in the league. Interim boss Calum McFarlane watched his side rally from adversity to claim a share of the spoils against one of the division’s strongest teams. The resilience shown in the final moments will boost morale as Chelsea look to climb the table in the coming weeks.
In contrast, Manchester City will rue missed chances and defensive lapses that allowed Chelsea back into the game, leaving them with work to do if they are to mount a serious challenge to Arsenal’s position at the summit of the Premier League.
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