Marc Cucurella kept Chelsea’s UEFA Champions League hopes alive with a decisive 71st-minute header to seal a vital 1-0 win over Manchester United on Friday night at Stamford Bridge. The win propelled Enzo Maresca’s team into the Premier League’s top four with just one match remaining.
The goal came during what was proving to be a frustrating encounter for the Blues, who had earlier seen a penalty overturned and missed several key chances.
United thought they had taken the lead in the 16th minute when Harry Maguire headed home a Bruno Fernandes cross, but VAR ruled the goal offside.
Chelsea reacted swiftly with Reece James smashing a powerful volley off the post moments later. The game remained goalless until just after the hour mark when Tyrique George, making his full Premier League debut, appeared to win a penalty after being brought down by Andre Onana. Referee Chris Kavanagh awarded the spot kick but reversed his decision following a pitchside VAR review.
However, the breakthrough came in the 71st minute. Reece James, who had been a constant threat down the right flank, delivered a brilliant cross which Cucurella powered into the net, notching his fifth Premier League goal of the season.
9am News report confirms that Noni Madueke had a chance to double the lead minutes later but failed to convert after slipping while taking his shot.
Chelsea Close In on Champions League Qualification
The win sees Chelsea climb to 66 points, level with Aston Villa and Newcastle United, and potentially secure a top-four finish depending on the final matchday results. Villa’s earlier win over Tottenham had applied pressure, but Cucurella’s strike eased nerves at Stamford Bridge.
Despite their efforts, Manchester United remain in 16th place, marking another low point in their underwhelming campaign.
Maresca revealed before the match that his initial target was to return Chelsea to Champions League football within two years of his appointment, but the club could achieve that objective a year ahead of schedule if results go their way on the final day.
Chelsea now turn their attention to a crucial final league fixture against Nottingham Forest, followed by preparations for the UEFA Europa Conference League Final against Real Betis on May 28—a chance to lift European silverware and end the season on a high.
