In a pulsating Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium on 4 January 2026, Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández produced a moment of pure drama to snatch a 94th-minute equaliser and salvage a 1–1 draw against title contenders Manchester City.
The atmosphere was electric from the outset as Pep Guardiola’s side looked determined to make a statement following the winter break. City dominated early possession and carved out several chances, with Erling Haaland and Phil Foden probing Chelsea’s defensive lines. Their pressure paid off just before half-time when Tijjani Reijnders unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner, giving the hosts a well-deserved 1–0 lead heading into the break.
Chelsea’s task was made even more daunting by off-field turmoil — the Blues entered the game without a permanent manager, having parted ways with Enzo Maresca earlier in the week, and were led by interim coach Calum McFarlane. Despite this upheaval, Chelsea responded with growing belief in the second half, gradually applying pressure and testing City’s backline.
As full-time approached and it seemed City would cling on for all three points, chaos inside the box in stoppage time presented one final opportunity. Malo Gusto’s cross, slightly deflected, dropped into a dangerous area and — after Fernández’s first attempt was saved and his second was miscued — the Argentine displayed remarkable persistence to poke home on the third effort in the 94th minute.
The crowd erupted as Fernández wheeled away in celebration, capping off a stunning turnaround. The goal not only earned Chelsea a precious point but also delivered a potentially damaging blow to Manchester City’s title ambitions — the draw leaves City trailing league leaders Arsenal by six points in a tight title race.
For Chelsea, the leveller will feel like a victory. It was a testament to the team’s character and resilience amid a turbulent spell. Interim boss Calum McFarlane’s tactical tweaks and the players’ response on the pitch earned widespread praise, while Fernández’s composure under pressure highlighted his importance to the Blues’ midfield and attacking threat.
From a City perspective, frustration was evident. Despite dominating large periods and creating the better chances, including efforts that rattled the woodwork, Pep Guardiola’s side were unable to convert those opportunities into a winning advantage. Defensive injuries late in the game only compounded City’s woes, making the draw feel like two points dropped rather than one gained.
In the end, it was Enzo Fernández’s late-gamed composure that stole the headlines — a dramatic punctuator to what will surely be remembered as one of the Premier League’s most thrilling stoppage-time goals of the season.
