Palmer’s last-minute penalty dealt a stunning twist, denying Manchester City a victory in a pulsating encounter against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Amid challenging weather conditions, the match showcased exceptional quality, featuring dramatic shifts in fortune. City seemed poised for a win as Rodri’s shot deflected off Thiago Silva and found the net with four minutes remaining.
The reigning champions controversially took the lead after 25 minutes when a penalty was awarded for Marc Cucurella’s challenge on Erling Haaland, who confidently converted. Chelsea swiftly equalized as Thiago Silva headed in Conor Gallagher’s corner.
Raheem Sterling, facing his former club, put Chelsea ahead after 37 minutes, capitalizing on Josko Gvardiol’s mistake. City managed to level just before halftime, with Manuel Akanji heading in Bernardo Silva’s cross.
City regained the lead two minutes into the second half, with Haaland scoring from Julian Alvarez’s cross. However, Chelsea fought back and drew level in the 67th minute when Nicolas Jackson capitalized on Ederson’s save from Gallagher’s shot.
In the closing minutes, Rodri’s fortuitous goal seemed to secure victory for City, but a late penalty, awarded for Ruben Dias’ foul on Chelsea’s Armando Broja, saw Palmer calmly equalize, concluding the match with honors even in a thrilling and eventful encounter.
