Man City Held To 1-1 draw by Chelsea after late Rodri equaliser

English Premier League champions Manchester City had to settle for a 1-1 draw against Chelsea in a thrilling encounter at the Etihad Stadium, on Saturday evening. Raheem Sterling, facing his former club, put the visitors ahead just before half-time. However, midfielder Rodri struck a late equaliser for City in the 83rd minute to secure a share of the points.

The match saw end-to-end action between two titans of English football. Chelsea created several good chances in the first half before Sterling clinically finished off a counter-attack to stun Pep Guardiola’s side. City dominated possession in the second period, laying siege to the Chelsea goal. Yet, profligate finishing from the likes of Erling Haaland looked to have cost them victory, until Rodri’s deflected long-range drive found the back of the net.

The result ends City’s run of 11 consecutive wins in all competitions. With title rivals Liverpool and Arsenal both winning earlier in the day, it also leaves the champions third in the EPL table – four points adrift of the summit in this captivating title race, though with a match in hand. Chelsea remains ninth, but showed they have the quality to go the distance with the best.

Both teams contributed to an entertaining spectacle for the fans. City were frustrated by Chelsea’s goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, who made some excellent saves. At the other end, Raheem Sterling twice went close to doubling his tally against his former employers. The match culminated in late drama, with City appealing in vain for a stoppage-time penalty against Levi Colwill.

This was a valuable point for two teams with lofty ambitions this season. Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino will be delighted with his players’ discipline and threat on the counterattack. Meanwhile, Guardiola knows City cannot afford many more slip-ups if they are to retain their crown. The title race remains fascinatingly poised as the season enters its final stretch.