Champions League Final 2021: Man City vs Chelsea Match Recap & Betting Odds

The 2021 UEFA Champions League Final was an intense showdown between two Premier League giants, Man City and Chelsea, held at the Estádio do Dragão in Porto, Portugal, on May 29, 2021. Originally scheduled for Istanbul, the match was relocated due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Champions League 2021 Final: Key Highlights

✅ Kai Havertz scores his first UCL goal and wins the match for Chelsea
✅ Pep Guardiola’s tactical decisions questioned after playing without a defensive midfielder
✅ Chelsea’s defense, led by Rüdiger & James, neutralized City’s attack
✅ N’Golo Kanté named Man of the Match

Watch highlight: Man City vs Chelsea 2021

Match Recap: Chelsea’s Defensive Masters Secure the Trophy

First Half: Kai Havertz Breaks the Deadlock

Chelsea took the lead just before halftime with a brilliant goal from Kai Havertz in the 42nd minute. The German midfielder capitalized on a perfectly timed pass from Mason Mount, rounding City’s goalkeeper Ederson before slotting the ball into an empty net.

• Goal (42'): Kai Havertz (Chelsea)

Man City, led by Pep Guardiola, struggled to break down Chelsea’s well-organized defense, marshaled by Antonio Rüdiger, Thiago Silva, and Reece James.

Second Half: City’s Attacking Struggles & Kante’s Dominance

Man City suffered a major setback when Kevin De Bruyne was forced off in the 60th minute after a collision with Antonio Rüdiger, leaving City without their main playmaker.

Despite late pressure from Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden, Chelsea held firm, with N’Golo Kanté delivering a man-of-the-match performance, breaking up attacks, and controlling the midfield.

• Final Score: Man City 0-1 Chelsea

With this victory, Chelsea secured their second Champions League title, having won their first in 2012.

Pre-Match Betting Odds

Before the final, Man City were the favorites.

• Man City: 1.44
• Chelsea: 2.75

Despite City’s strong form and dominance throughout the season, Chelsea had already beaten them twice under Thomas Tuchel and were confident going into the final.