Chelsea took a big step towards securing Champions League football next season as they beat Manchester City 2-1 in arguably the most competitive game since the Premier League’s restart.
Victory for Frank Lampard’s men also ensured that Liverpool were officially crowned champions of England for the first time in thirty years. A truly remarkable feat for one of the great teams of the Premier League era, but alas, this should not take away from what will be heralded as a seminal moment in Lampard’s burgeoning career as Chelsea manager.
City, despite talk of rotation, fielded a strong side and soon set about dominating possession as they looked to stretch Chelsea’s rigid defensive structure.
It seemed only a matter of time before Pep Guardiola’s men would take the lead, but chances were at a premium and City became restless in their pursuit of the opening goal.
This was quickly pounced upon by Chelsea’s midfield who looked to spring Christian Pulisic and Willian in behind. Then against the run of play, Pulisic took advantage of a mix up in the City defence to drive forward and slot home the opening goal.
The game continued to follow a similar pattern after the break and it appeared as if order had been restored when Kevin De Bruyne found the top corner with an inch-perfect free-kick.
Chelsea, though, persevered and after Fernandinho had handled Tammy Abraham’s goal-bound effort, Willian fired home the winning goal from the penalty spot to end any lingering hopes of a title push for The Citizens.
Here’s how we rated Chelsea’s players after the game:
