On January 3, 2021, Manchester City delivered a stunning 3-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, despite missing key players due to a COVID-19 outbreak.
Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden, and Kevin De Bruyne scored within 16 first-half minutes, exposing Chelsea’s struggles and intensifying scrutiny on manager Frank Lampard.
Rapid Goals Seal Victory
Gundogan opened the scoring in the 18th minute, turning Thiago Silva to fire a low shot past Edouard Mendy. Foden doubled the lead three minutes later with a superb first-time strike from De Bruyne’s pass. De Bruyne added the third, slotting in after Raheem Sterling’s shot hit the post, securing City’s dominance.
Chelsea’s Late Response
Chelsea managed a stoppage-time consolation goal through Callum Hudson-Odoi, who fired in Kai Havertz’s cross past debutant goalkeeper Zack Steffen. However, the goal did little to mask Chelsea’s lackluster performance, marked by sloppy possession and defensive errors.
Impact of COVID-19 on City
City played their first match since December 26, 2020, after a COVID-19 outbreak forced the postponement of their Everton game. Missing Kyle Walker, Gabriel Jesus, Ederson, and others, City still showcased their attacking flair, with De Bruyne excelling in a false nine role.
Chelsea’s Ongoing Struggles
Chelsea’s defeat dropped them to eighth in the Premier League, having earned just four points from six matches. Lampard admitted to BBC Sport, “We made mistakes, and City punished us.” The loss highlighted Chelsea’s need to regain confidence ahead of matches against Fulham and Leicester City.
City’s Resurgence
The win lifted City to fifth, four points behind leaders Liverpool and Manchester United, with a game in hand. Pep Guardiola praised his team’s return to form, telling BBC Sport, “We played like two or three seasons ago. This is a fantastic result at Chelsea.”
Key Stats and Next Matches
City’s defense, conceding only 13 goals in the season, paired with their attacking prowess, signaled a strong title challenge. Chelsea, however, suffered as many losses in their last six games (4) as in their previous 23. City face Manchester United in the Carabao Cup on January 6, while Chelsea host Morecambe in the FA Cup on January 10.
