Manchester United Bounce Back with Emphatic Win Over Chelsea
Manchester United hosted Chelsea on Thursday night in a crucial Premier League clash at Old Trafford. After suffering a disappointing loss in the Manchester derby last weekend, Erik ten Hag’s men bounced back with an emphatic 2-1 victory over the Blues. With Arsenal and Manchester City both dropping points earlier in the week, the win boosted United’s top four hopes.
Lineups
Erik ten Hag made three changes from the loss against City as Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Luke Shaw, and Fred came into the starting eleven. Chelsea also made a few adjustments as Potter opted for a back three, with Kalidou Koulibaly, Thiago Silva, and Trevoh Chalobah in defense.
First Half
The game began with both teams trying to gain early dominance in midfield. Chelsea saw more of the ball possession, but United looked dangerous on the counter. The Red Devils nearly took the lead after 15 minutes when Bruno Fernandes was released through on goal, but his shot was well saved by Kepa.
United eventually broke the deadlock on 38 minutes when Antony fired an unstoppable left-footed strike into the top corner from the edge of the box. Chelsea almost equalized before halftime, but David De Gea produced an excellent reflex save to deny Aubameyang.
Second Half
Chelsea came out brightly after the interval, applying pressure on United’s defense. However, against the run of play, the hosts doubled their advantage on 52 minutes. Bruno Fernandes sent Marcus Rashford through on goal after a quick counter, and the Englishman calmly slotted past Kepa to make it 2-0.
The Blues pulled a goal back just two minutes later when Jorginho converted a penalty after a foul on Mason Mount. This set up a tense finale as Chelsea desperately searched for an equalizer. United defended resiliently and had chances to extend their lead on the break, with Fred hitting the post.
In the end, Ten Hag’s men held on for a crucial three points which keeps them firmly in the race for the Champions League places.
Key Takeaways
- Crucial win for Man United’s top four hopes after derby defeat
- Emphatic response from Ten Hag’s men with an energetic display
- Chelsea struggle to create chances despite dominating possession
- Rashford and Antony make the difference in attack for United
- Jorginho pulls goal back to set up a nervy finale
The victory moves United to within a point of fourth-placed Newcastle, while Chelsea remains struggling down in eighth position. Erik ten Hag will be delighted with his team’s display as they gained revenge over Chelsea after losing 4-0 at Stamford Bridge earlier in the season.
