"And now, let's look at the Manchester City lineup."
"Guardiola has stuck with their familiar 4-3-3 formation."
"Ederson is in goal."
"A four-man defense with Delph, Otamendi, Stones, and Kyle Walker."
"Three midfielders: David Silva, Fernandinho, and De Bruyne."
"And up front: Sterling, Jesus, and Sane!"
With the referee's whistle, the starting players of both teams stepped onto the field. Chelsea fans filled the Stamford Bridge stands, chanting passionately, "Chelsea, champions!"
As soon as the game began, Chelsea, playing at home, took control of the rhythm. Fabregas received a quick pass from Hazard in midfield and wasted no time, sending the ball directly to Marcos Alonso on the left.
Alonso accelerated, advancing quickly into City's half. But Manchester City's defensive players closed in fast, with Fernandinho and De Bruyne among the first to confront him.
Although City's midfielders are more offensive-minded, their defensive positioning was sharp. Still, Alonso didn't hesitate. He passed immediately, sending a beautifully curved cross into the penalty area.
Since Conte opted not to play a high center-forward tonight, Alonso's cross didn't find a clear target and was eventually cleared by City defender Otamendi.
Otamendi quickly passed to De Bruyne in midfield, setting up a solid counter-attack opportunity for Manchester City.
De Bruyne, always sharp, sent the ball forward to David Silva. Calm and collected, Silva took a quick look, spotted Sterling, and passed it straight to him.
Sterling, known for his lightning speed, burst forward with everything he had. In seconds, he raced past Rudiger, penetrating Chelsea's penalty area.
The Chelsea fans collectively held their breath as Christensen rushed in to close Sterling down. But Sterling, determined to make his mark, chose not to pass.
He went for a direct shot!
You could feel his hunger to score in that strike.
But the ball flew wide, heading straight for the goal line. A missed shot, but Sterling's aggressive drive was impressive.
Moments later, Manchester City launched another attack.
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