Marc Cucurella’s 71st-minute goal seals a tense victory for Chelsea in their final home game, pushing them into the Premier League’s top four ahead of the final round.
LONDON, May 16 — Chelsea boosted their hopes of a Champions League return with a gritty 1-0 win over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Friday, thanks to a decisive second-half header by Marc Cucurella.
The Spanish defender found the net in the 71st minute, converting a pinpoint cross from captain Reece James who dazzled United’s defense with clever footwork on the right flank. The goal proved to be the match-winner on a night where Chelsea dominated possession but looked nervy at times.
“I knew I had space and time. I just needed to put it in the right spot — and this guy was always arriving,” James told Sky Sports while standing alongside Cucurella after the game.
James had nearly opened the scoring in the first half when his powerful effort struck the post. Manchester United’s best moment came when Harry Maguire briefly thought he’d put them ahead, only for VAR to rule the effort offside by the finest of margins.
Chelsea’s win moved them into fourth place in the Premier League, leapfrogging Aston Villa, who had earlier defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-0. With just one match remaining, the Blues now hold a coveted Champions League qualification spot.
“It’s where this club belongs — competing in Europe’s best competition,” said James, echoing manager Enzo Maresca’s goal since taking charge at the start of the season.
The final whistle brought wild celebrations from the Chelsea bench and fans, marking an emotional end to the club’s home campaign. Players completed a lap of honour around Stamford Bridge before exiting the pitch.
Chelsea’s final league fixture will be away at Nottingham Forest, who are seventh and still in the hunt for European qualification. Manchester United, meanwhile, remain in 16th and are now looking to salvage their season by winning the Europa League final against Tottenham next Wednesday.