Phil Foden and 95-touch star among Man City’s winners from their draw vs Chelsea
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Phil Foden and 95-Touch Star Among Man City's Winners from Their Draw vs Chelsea
In a tense Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by managerless Chelsea, ending their eight-match winning streak at home. Despite the late disappointment, standout performers Phil Foden and the possession-dominant Tijjani Reijnders emerged as key winners for City.[1][3]
City dominated early proceedings under interim Chelsea boss Calum McFarlane's cautious setup. Phil Foden was electric, missing a pair of golden chances and shooting just wide on 20 minutes after slick interplay involving Matheus Nunes and Reijnders. His energy and threat kept Chelsea pinned back, earning him praise despite limited service (rated 6/10).[1][2][3] Foden's dynamism highlighted his growing importance in City's attack.
The 95-touch star Tijjani Reijnders stole the show, bossing midfield with relentless involvement—touching the ball nearly 100 times. He broke the deadlock just before halftime, blasting into the roof of Filip Jörgensen's net from a tight angle after Erling Haaland's strike rattled the post. Named Flashscore's Man of the Match, Reijnders controlled proceedings, outshining Chelsea's midfield and underscoring his seamless integration (high involvement noted across ratings).[1][2]
Others shone too: Rodri (7.5/10) asserted midfield dominance, nearing top form, while Joško Gvardiol blocked early threats. Haaland nearly scored but hit the post.[1][2] City slipped six points behind leaders Arsenal, level with Aston Villa.
Chelsea fought back valiantly post-break. Pedro Neto spurned a sitter, but Malo Gusto's teasing cross in stoppage time allowed Enzo Fernández to scramble home an equalizer, delighting McFarlane in his debut.[1][2] Chelsea's resilience, aided by subs like Liam Delap (8/10), showed promise amid Maresca's shock exit.
Though the draw stung, Foden's flair and Reijnders' mastery offer City optimism heading forward.(Word count: 298)