Drogba Arena, 8 August 2054 – Chelsea began their Premier League title defence in emphatic fashion, dispatching Manchester City 3–1 to stretch their unbeaten run in all competitions to 40 games.
Manager Calin Dimario’s side picked up where they left off after their Community Shield triumph, blending precision and power under the late summer sun in West London. The 82,381 in attendance witnessed a performance that balanced control with cutting edge.
It was Kieran O’Sullivan who opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, reacting quickest to a loose ball and volleying home from close range. VAR briefly intervened, but referee Liam Bailey upheld the goal after a short review. From there, Chelsea never looked back.
Jairzinho doubled the lead just before the break, coolly slotting a low effort into the bottom corner on 38 minutes before curling in a spectacular second from 19 metres on the stroke of half-time. The Brazilian winger was unplayable, completing 88% of his passes, covering 14km, and finishing the day with two goals and an assist to earn a 9.10 match rating and the Player of the Match award.
City pulled one back in the 71st minute through Andy Wilton, but it proved little more than a consolation as Chelsea’s midfield trio of Pelé, Manuel Ordóñez, and Chancel Beya kept firm control of possession, with the hosts enjoying 59% of the ball and a remarkable 4.82 expected goals compared to City’s 0.76.
Two debutants were introduced late on – Brazilian midfielder Gérson and Argentine defender César Schwindt – both warmly received by supporters after long waits for their first appearances in blue.
The result keeps Chelsea among the early leaders, sitting fourth on goal difference behind Everton, QPR, and Arsenal, all of whom also picked up opening wins.
As ever under Dimario’s remarkable 33-year tenure, Chelsea look a side with both steel and poetry – one that plays with the confidence of serial champions.
Final Score: Chelsea 3–1 Manchester City
Goals: O’Sullivan 23’, Jairzinho 38’, 45’ – Wilton 71’
Attendance: 82,381
Player of the Match: Jairzinho (Chelsea, 9.10 rating)
Chelsea open the season with a confident win and extend their unbeaten streak to 40 games.