Erling Haaland finds the net once more in the first Premier League weekend, helping Man City secure a 2-0 victory over Chelsea under Pep Guardiola’s leadership.

Premier League champions Manchester City began their title defence with a resounding 2-0 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Despite the absence of key player Rodri, Pep Guardiola’s team adapted seamlessly and secured the victory with goals from Erling Haaland and Mateo Kovacic.

Right from the start, City displayed their dominance, controlling possession and leaving Chelsea struggling to find their footing in the game. New signing Savinho impressed with his bright touches, including a clever pass that set up Bernardo Silva, although the midfielder failed to convert the opportunity.

In the 18th minute, Haaland continued his impressive early-season form by opening the scoring with a clinical finish. This marks the third consecutive season in which the striker has scored on the opening weekend since joining City.

Chelsea managed to grow into the match and believed they had equalized just before half-time, only to have their hopes dashed by the offside flag. However, despite their efforts, they struggled to create many clear-cut chances and were ultimately punished when Kovacic sealed the victory with a goal six minutes before the final whistle.

Kovacic, who had previously spent five years at Chelsea before joining City in 2023, fired home from outside the area to ensure City’s title defence got off to the perfect start. Guardiola will now be aiming for a fifth consecutive Premier League triumph as his team looks to maintain their dominance in English football.