After missing one season, Manchester United are back in the UEFA Champions League as they secured the top four in the Premier League. Last night, the Red Devils ran riot over Chelsea FC at Old Trafford, which secured their place in the Champions League. The victory also moves Man United to third place in the point table, overtaking Newcastle United.
As it happened
Manchester United needed only a point against Chelsea FC to secure the top four. But United’s manager was very determined to keep the winning rhythm. He deployed an unchanged squad that played against AFC Bournemouth. On the other hand, Chelsea boss Frank Lampard set up his team formation with 4-3-3.
From the beginning, both teams tried to play aggressive football at Old Trafford. But midfielder Casemiro put Manchester United ahead in the 6th minute. He converted Eriksen’s cross into a goal with his powerful header. After that, both sides created many chances, and Chelsea could have found the equalizer but missed several big chances.
However, The Red Devils doubled their lead just before half-time. Casemiro, who scored the first goal, set up the second goal for Manchester United with his classy no-looking pass. It was Anthony Martial who received the ball and scored in the 45+5th minute.
Manchester United scored two more goals in the second half. In the 73rd minute, skipper Bruno Fernandes earned a penalty kick as Fofana fouled him inside the box. The captain successfully netted the ball to make the scoreline 3-0.
Marcus Rashford, who replaced Antony, wrote his name in the scoresheet in the 78th minute. He brilliantly defeated Chelsea’s goalkeeper to score his 30th goal of the season for Manchester United. However, Joao Felix returned a goal for Chelsea. But it helped nothing to avoid the defeat. As a result, Manchester United won the match with a comfortable 4-1 victory and secured the Champions League football.
This club belongs in the Champions League – Ten Hag
Manchester United’s manager Erik ten Hag is very pleased to take Manchester United to the Champions League once again. He said, “This club belongs in the Champions League. But it is not easy in the Premier League, it is tough. A lot compete for those positions – seven or eight teams. It is a massive performance when you get this done.”
The manager added, “We showed a winning attitude. You can see Chelsea has outstanding players. Counter-attacks were really good, really dangerous. We should have scored more. It is important to stay in the rhythm on Sunday. We can be third, so we want to keep the focus.”
