In a pre-season clash at Columbus, Ohio, Erling Haaland’s scintillating hat trick propelled Manchester City to a 4-2 victory over Chelsea. The reigning Premier League champions showcased their dominance, delighting a crowd of 71,280 fans in this English club football friendly. This match was part of a US pre-season tour for both clubs, offering a preview of the upcoming 2024-25 Premier League season.
Haaland, wearing the captain’s armband, demonstrated why he is considered one of the world’s best players. The 24-year-old Norwegian striker set the tone early, converting a penalty kick in the fourth minute. Just 17 seconds later, after a giveaway by Moises Caicedo in the Chelsea half, Haaland smashed a right-footed shot into the right corner, doubling City’s lead in the fifth minute. This blistering start left Chelsea reeling and set the stage for an entertaining encounter.
City’s relentless pressure continued in the second half. Oscar Bobb extended the lead to 3-0 in the 55th minute. Bobb skillfully took the ball down the right wing, cut inside, and fired a left-footed shot past a defender, finding the near post. Just 71 seconds later, Haaland completed his hat trick. City capitalized on another Chelsea turnover, and Haaland, receiving a pass at the top of the box, flicked in a left-footed shot for a commanding 4-0 lead.
Chelsea managed to respond in the 59th minute with a goal from Raheem Sterling. Sterling, who faced his former club, showcased his attacking prowess with a well-placed shot. Despite this, City’s defense remained resolute, and the match seemed out of reach for Chelsea. Noni Madueke added a final goal for Chelsea in the 89th minute, but it proved too little, too late.
This match highlighted Manchester City’s depth and attacking flair, with Haaland’s performance particularly noteworthy. His hat trick underscored his clinical finishing and ability to seize crucial moments. For Chelsea, the game served as a reminder of the challenges they face ahead of the new season, particularly in tightening their defense and minimizing costly errors.
Meanwhile, in another pre-season US showdown, Liverpool triumphed over Manchester United with a 3-0 victory before 77,559 spectators in Columbia, South Carolina. This match between English giants showcased Liverpool’s attacking efficiency and solid defense, providing a glimpse into their readiness for the upcoming season.
Fabio Carvalho, the 21-year-old Portuguese striker, opened the scoring for Liverpool in the 10th minute, setting the tone for the Reds. In the 36th minute, Egyptian striker Mo Salah delivered a perfect centering pass to Curtis Jones, who tapped in with his left foot, doubling Liverpool’s lead. The Merseysiders continued their dominance in the second half, with Greek standout Kostas Tsimikas sealing the 3-0 victory in the 61st minute by knocking in a rebound off the left post.
These pre-season matches offered valuable insights into the form and strategies of some of the Premier League’s top clubs. Manchester City’s commanding performance against Chelsea highlighted their attacking prowess and depth, while Liverpool’s comprehensive victory over Manchester United underscored their defensive solidity and attacking efficiency.
As the 2024-25 Premier League season approaches, fans can look forward to intense competition and high-quality football. These pre-season encounters have set the stage for an exciting campaign, with clubs refining their tactics and players showcasing their skills. For Manchester City and Liverpool, these victories provide a confidence boost, while Chelsea and Manchester United will be eager to address their weaknesses and improve before the season kicks off.
