Late Fernandez Strike Denies City as Chelsea Snatch Etihad Draw

Manchester City were forced to settle for a share of the spoils after Chelsea rescued a point in the dying moments of their Premier League Round 20 clash at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday night.

The contest began at a measured pace, with both sides feeling each other out during a disjointed opening half-hour. City gradually imposed themselves, finding rhythm through Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders, who consistently drifted into dangerous pockets between the lines.

Erling Haaland went agonisingly close shortly before the break, curling a left-footed effort off the inside of the post as the home side cranked up the pressure. Their dominance was finally rewarded in the 42nd minute when Cherki combined neatly with Rodri before a deflected pass fell kindly for Reijnders, who showed composure and power to finish from a tight angle and give City a deserved lead.

Chelsea struggled to make an impact in the first half, offering little threat beyond isolated counter-attacks and heading into the interval trailing despite Citys failure to fully capitalise on their control.

The visitors showed greater intent after the restart following a series of substitutions that injected urgency into their play. Neto squandered a golden opportunity early in the second half, somehow lifting his effort over the bar from close range, while Cole Palmer later failed to connect cleanly when well placed.

Despite Chelseas improved display, it appeared City would see the game out. Guardiola introduced fresh legs to shore up his defence, and the hosts looked comfortable as the clock ticked into added time.

However, late drama would define the night. In the 94th minute, Malo Gusto burst down the right and delivered a low cross that evaded both Liam Delap and the City defence. Enzo Fernandez arrived unmarked at the far post, saw his first effort brilliantly saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma, but reacted quickest to poke home the rebound and stun the Etihad.

The goal sparked wild celebrations from the Chelsea bench and travelling support, while City players were left shell-shocked. Despite leading on expected goals and territory for much of the contest, the champions were unable to find a decisive second goal.

The draw leaves Manchester City second in the table ahead of a crucial clash with Brighton, while Chelsea climb to fifth and take confidence into their upcoming London derby against Fulham.