A first-half goal from Kai Havertz sealed a night to remember for Chelsea as they secured a Champions League final win over Manchester City. Not many expected the Blues to win, but they overcame the odds- defeating Pep Guardiola for the third time in 2021. The goal itself, was impressive in its own right, but the overall performance of Thomas Tuchel’s men was incredible.
They tactically outwitted Manchester City, both on and off the ball. Timo Werner made the backline of John Stones and Ruben Dias look amateur like for the first time this season. Every ball in behind looked certain to lead to danger. The only issue Chelsea had was the fact it was Timo Werner on the end of the opening chances.
The German, who has looked worryingly nervous in front of goal all season, just could not convert his chances. And so the mantle fell to a different summer signing. Kai Havertz, the £70 million man, made the run for Mason Mount to pick out. Mount’s pass parted City’s defence like the Red Sea, allowing Havertz to round Ederson and score the eventual winning goal.
Kai Havertz Scores Winner to Seal Champions League Final Win Over Manchester City
Pep Guardiola Left Questioned Once Again
As for Manchester City, it was another night to forget in Europe. They worked so hard to reach their first ever Champions League final only to be outwitted by Tuchel once more this season. They have suffered heartbreak in the past in earlier stages of the competition, but their hearts will ache now more than ever after the loss in Portugal. City reached the final hurdle, only to fall flat on their face.
Guardiola, who was managing in his first Champions League final for a decade, has again had his tactics questioned. He is yet to beat Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea. And even without a defensive midfielder in sight, his side still failed to crack the German’s tactical code. Kevin de Bruyne’s heartbreaking exit, forced off with a head injury in the second half, summed the night up for the Citizens.
Manchester City were outplayed. Guardiola was outthought. Chelsea were crowned Champions of Europe for the second time in their history.
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