The game between Chelsea and Manchester United was huge, as the race for Champions League football has opened up once again. Both clubs have been very inconsistent throughout, therefore the game could’ve gone either way. In the end, United came away with a 0-2 victory.
As the team sheets were announced there were notable absences for Chelsea. Top goalscorer Tammy Abraham was a big miss and this meant Michy Batshuayi was granted a rare Premier League start.
The game started cagey as neither side wanted to concede. Most attacks did come from the home side however, no efforts seriously troubled David De Gea. Unfortunately for Chelsea, they lost midfield engine N’golo Kante through injury, which ultimately slowed Chelsea’s tempo.
As the half went on United began to find their feet. Solskjaer’s men began to have a number of counter-attacks, and eventually one paid off. Moments before half time, Anthony Martial tucked away a world-class header after a superb piece of wing-back play through Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Despite United taking the lead in the first half, Martial’s header wasn’t the main talking point. United captain Harry Maguire should’ve been sent off after a clear act of violent conduct. The referee had no problem on the pitch. However, VAR did review the incident and stood by the on-field decision. However earlier on in the season, a red card was given for a similar offence. This then triggered more negativity towards VAR, and how there is very little consistency.
Throughout the second half, Chelsea did have the ball in the net twice although both were ruled out through VAR. Each goal was ruled out correctly, as there was a clear two-hand push and an offside.
After Chelsea’s first goal was disallowed United went on to score a second. A beautiful corner from Bruno Fernandes allowed Maguire to score a bullet header. This then meant Chelsea needed to go all out for the win.
Despite being two goals down Chelsea showed little signs of scoring due to United’s structure. United remained solid throughout as they remained in an organised shape despite showing some fatigue in the final minutes.
This win for United was somewhat expected as they’re strong with the counter-attacking style. Whilst Chelsea have been poor at Stamford Bridge all season long.
It is now extremely important for each team to find consistency. Both clubs are desperate to qualify for the Champions League, although with the current form it looks unlikely for each team to qualify.
