Rodri’s late leveller earned Manchester City a 1-1 draw against Chelsea as the reigning champions lost ground in the Premier League title race on Saturday.

Raheem Sterling’s breakaway goal against his former club had given Mauricio Pochettino’s men a deserved lead at the interval and Chelsea had chances to extend their advantage.

Erling Haaland spurned a series of opportunities to equalise as City pushed.

But Pep Guardiola’s team did find one of the goals they needed with Rodri’s left-footed effort deflecting off Trevor Chalobah and into the net.

They pushed for the winner, sparking a series of melees in the Chelsea box, but had to settle for the draw in the thrilling game.

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Pochettino’s team warranted it with their endeavour, the draw lifting them back above Wolves and into the top half of the table.

City may rue the dropped points more. They are now third, four points behind the Premier League leaders Liverpool.

City play again in the Premier League on Tuesday as they host Brentford. They next travel to Bournemouth on Saturday, February 24.

It is another huge game for Chelsea next weekend as they take on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley on Sunday, February 25.

The Star