Chelsea secured a vital 1-0 win over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge in a thrilling Premier League clash on Friday, May 16, 2025. The victory significantly helps Chelsea's top-four bid and makes Manchester United unbeaten in their past eight league matches.
Match Summary
The game was one where both sides created few chances of scoring during the first half. Chelsea's skipper Reece James threatened to break the deadlock early in the game with a powerful attempt that rattled the post. It was not until the 71st minute that the score was finally broken.
Reece James, coming back from injury and playing at a very high level of intensity, delivered a no-look right-wing cross. Marc Cucurella timed a run flawlessly and headed past André Onana, giving Chelsea the lead and his fifth goal of the season.
Manchester United had previously had a Harry Maguire goal ruled out after a VAR review that led to offside in the build-up, an episode which obviously knocked the wind out of the visitors.
Best Match Moments
- 71st Minute Goal:
⚽ Marc Cucurella heads a beautiful pass from Reece James.
Watch highlight → - Disallowed Goal:
❌ Harry Maguire thought he had scored, but his header was ruled offside following a VAR review. - Late Drama
A pitch intruder has wandered onto the pitch during stoppage time, stopping a promising Manchester United attack. Stewards quickly removed the intruder, but the stop cut short United's momentum.
Player Standouts
- Marc Cucurella – Match-winner with the winning header. His runs upfield were key all game.
- Reece James – Important on the right wing; delivered the pass and was reliable at the back.
- Harry Maguire – Solid in the air and came close to scoring United the winner but was denied by VAR.
Impact on the Table
Chelsea's win takes United into fourth place on goal difference over Aston Villa. Winning against Nottingham Forest in their last game will see them through to Champions League football next season.
For Manchester United, the defeat extends their worst league campaign without a win since 1989-90. With only the Europa League final against Tottenham left to rescue their season, Erik ten Hag's team are in for a testing assessment.
Final Score: Chelsea 1–0 Manchester United
Goal Scorer: Marc Cucurella (71')
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
Kickoff: 21:15 BST
Watch all the highlights here:
Chelsea vs Manchester United – Match Highlights
Chelsea fans will be celebrating a resolute performance, but Manchester United must get back on track in a hurry before their European final.