Manchester City 2-0 Chelsea: Manchester City defeated Chelsea in the third round of the League Cup on Wednesday evening. Pep Guardiola’s team defeated the visitors 2-0 at home, courtesy to goals from Riyad Mahrez and Julian Álvarez. Chelsea has joined Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur in competing in England’s second cup tournament.
Manchester City 2-0 Chelsea: Mahrez and Álvarez on the scoresheet
Christian Pulisic got the first major chance at the Etihad Stadium, but his shot was blocked and saved by goalkeeper Stefan Ortega. The Londoners were then fortunate that Kalidou Koulibaly was allowed to stand: the defender floored Jack Grealish, who appeared to be on his way to the goal. Koulibaly received a yellow card, and no one could do anything about it because the VAR was only used in the League Cup semi-finals.
Álvarez, Erling Haaland’s replacement, was simply too slow and could be stopped by Koulibaly. Riyad Mahrez was permitted to moor for a free kick a stone’s throw from the sixteen. And fired it over the wall just after the break. Hakim Ziyech, who was given one start, fired a fantastic chance at 1-1 a few minutes later too wild, leading the ball to flutter past.
However, it was well worth it. Álvarez initiated the attack, Mahrez fired, and the Argentine was able to put in the rebound from close range. Chelsea didn’t give in. Lewis Hall, who had a major chance in the first half and in any event stood out favourably in this rare foundation performance for the kid, made a good attempt at a fantastic pass from Ziyech. Ortega made an excellent save. The substitution duo of Kai Havertz and Raheem Sterling remained dangerous. But the Englishman was unable to connect with the German’s cross.
Guardiola used Nathan Aké against his previous club to mitigate the threat. Chelsea pressed on, but despite the addition of key players, Graham Potter’s team was unable to close the gap. In one night, for example, no fewer than five London clubs were eliminated. Including Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, and Crystal Palace.
