It was Cucurella’s seventh goal across all competitions this season.
Image credit: Chelsea FC
Marc Cucurella’s timely second-half header propelled Chelsea to a crucial 1-0 victory over Manchester United, placing the Blues in the Premier League’s top four with one match remaining.
The win at Stamford Bridge means Chelsea are now level on points with third-place Newcastle and sit ahead of Aston Villa on goal difference, tightening their grip on a potential Champions League spot for next season.
Decisive Moment
The game’s defining moment arrived in the 71st minute when Cucurella met Reece James’ pinpoint cross at the far post, steering a powerful header beyond United goalkeeper Andre Onana.
One of our own. #CFC | #CHEMUN pic.twitter.com/MR9LuMJ9YP
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) May 16, 2025
It was Cucurella’s seventh goal across all competitions this season and underlined his growing influence in Chelsea’s late-season resurgence.
VAR Drama and Missed Chances
Earlier, VAR played a key role in shaping the narrative.
Harry Maguire thought he had handed United the lead with a well-struck volley, but the goal was chalked off for offside.
Chelsea then had a penalty awarded — and later overturned — after Tyrique George went down under Onana’s challenge, with replays confirming the keeper touched the ball first.
James nearly broke the deadlock before halftime with a curling effort that struck the post, reflecting Chelsea’s mounting pressure despite a striker shortage that saw academy graduate George starting up front.
A Crucial Win for Chelsea
Coming off a deflating 2-0 loss to Newcastle, Chelsea desperately needed all three points to maintain control over their Champions League fate.
Manager Enzo Maresca praised his squad’s resilience, calling the performance an “unbelievable effort” as they overcame injuries and recent setbacks.
This was Chelsea’s third win in four matches, cementing a strong finish to a rollercoaster campaign that at one point saw them slip out of European contention altogether.
Manchester United’s Struggles Continue
For Manchester United, the result was another chapter in a troubling domestic season.
With their 18th loss in 37 league games, they remain in 16th place and without a league win in their last eight matches.
Their only remaining hope of European salvation lies in the upcoming Europa League final against Tottenham, where a victory would deliver a Champions League berth.
Despite the high stakes ahead, manager Ruben Amorim fielded a strong side in West London.
However, United failed to register a shot on target in the first half and managed just a late effort from Amad Diallo that forced a save from Chelsea keeper Robert Sánchez.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea now travel to Nottingham Forest on the final day of the Premier League season.
A win there would guarantee their return to Europe’s elite competition, regardless of other results.
