Erling Haaland displayed his exceptional scoring abilities with a hat-trick, leading Manchester City to a 4-2 victory over Chelsea in a pre-season friendly held in Ohio.
The match began with high intensity as Haaland netted twice within the first five minutes. The opening goal came from a penalty after Levi Colwill fouled Haaland inside the area. Despite having to retake the penalty, the Norwegian striker confidently scored. Shortly after, Haaland intercepted a misjudged pass from Moises Caicedo to Tosin Adarabioyo, surged forward, and scored his second goal.
Chelsea had chances to respond in the first half, with Christopher Nkunku’s effort being denied by City’s goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, and another attempt narrowly missing the target.
In the second half, Haaland continued his scoring spree. Oscar Bobb also found the net, both within a minute. A loose pass from Raheem Sterling was intercepted by James McAtee, who set up Bobb. Cutting in from the right, Bobb fired home. Haaland completed his hat-trick with another assist from McAtee, reaffirming his return to form after recent fitness concerns.
Chelsea managed to pull two goals back. Sterling scored in the 59th minute, making a well-timed run to the far post and volleying home. New signings Marc Guiu and Noni Madueke also came close to scoring. In the final moments, Madueke slotted the ball under Scott Carson, making the final score 4-2.
McAtee, who had a standout game, almost added a fifth for City, but his effort hit the post.
Overall, the match showcased a promising display for Manchester City, particularly with Haaland back in form, while Chelsea will look to build on their moments of promise.
