Enzo Fernandez scored a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser to earn Chelsea a deserved 1–1 draw against title-chasing Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, bringing an end to a turbulent week for the London club.
Chelsea were led by Calum McFarlane, the club’s Under-21 coach, who took charge of the first team on an interim basis following the departure of Enzo Maresca on Thursday. Under his guidance, the Blues produced a disciplined and resilient display to frustrate the reigning champions.
Manchester City looked on course for victory after Tijjani Reijnders’ first-half strike, but Fernandez’s late intervention ensured Chelsea left with a point. The draw means City have now fallen six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal after consecutive stalemates.
Chelsea adopted a compact, low-block approach, limiting City’s chances for much of the contest. The hosts registered their first shot on target in the 37th minute when Erling Haaland’s deflected effort looped toward goal, but goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen reacted quickly to tip the ball wide.
Moments later, Haaland struck the post with a powerful effort after cutting inside, as City began to turn up the pressure. The breakthrough came just before the interval when Reijnders collected a loose ball on the edge of the area, evaded Benoit Badiashile, and fired a low shot into the near corner.
Chelsea responded positively after the break. Pedro Neto missed a clear opportunity from close range, while substitute Liam Delap—making his return to the Etihad against his former club—saw his effort blocked by goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
As City sought to see out the win, Chelsea continued to push, and their persistence paid off in stoppage time. Fernandez reacted quickest in the box, poking home at the third attempt to spark jubilant celebrations among the travelling supporters.
The result offers encouragement for Chelsea amid recent upheaval, while City’s title challenge suffered another setback.
