The English Premier League experienced a thrilling match as Manchester United were able to secure a much-needed 3-2 victory over Newcastle United. Notable goals from Amad Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund ensured that Erik ten Hag’s team triumphed, despite the pressure mounted on them. This match was crucial for Manchester United’s odds in the European qualification, especially after losing 19 competitive matches this season.
Though not an immaculate game, United showcased their prowess with Kobbie Mainoo breaking the deadlock in the first half. Anthony Gordon equalised for Newcastle early in the second half, but Diallo’s well-targeted hit restored United’s lead, and Hojlund’s timely goal provided further cushion. Although Newcastle’s Lewis Hall managed a breathtaking strike during stoppage time, it wasn’t enough. This resounding victory saw United tying with Newcastle on 53 points, still trailing due to a substantial goal difference, as the league approaches its finale.
In another high-stakes match, Chelsea moved closer to securing their place in Europe with a 2-1 victory against Brighton, largely due to Cole Palmer’s striking season record of 22 goals. Palmer, who spurned Brighton’s interest to join Chelsea last year, commenced the scoring in the 34th minute. Christopher Nkunku consolidated Chelsea’s lead further, guaranteeing the Blues’ their fourth straight league win despite Reece James’ late dismissal and Danny Welbeck’s stoppage-time consolation goal for Brighton.
Brighton made a half-time substitution, replacing their team skipper Lewis Dunk with another player. Pedro had a close miss for the team, striking the crossbar, whilst player Simon Adingra’s post-striking attempt and strong penalty appeal ahead of Welbeck’s goal caused some controversy as it stood at 1-0. Mauricio Pochettino’s visitors were previously fortunate to be spared a penalty owing to a VAR decision during a particularly eventful match. Despite a rocky beginning, the Argentinian manager’s team have rallied and secured 32 points in 2024, bringing them within reach of international football as they approach their final match.
On their previous visit to Sussex, Chelsea encountered a crushing 4-1 defeat in October 2022, with ex-manager Graham Potter being dubbed the antagonist after returning to Brighton for the first time. This time, former Brighton duo Marc Cucurella and Moises Caicedo shared the dishonour. Our fixture has spawned additional tensions due to the recurring trade of personnel and players between the southern coast and Stamford Bridge.
Left-back Cucurella ignited outrage from the crowd due to his triple fouls not earning him a yellow card, alongside winning a penalty in the 16th minute. When the Spanish left-back fell in the penalty area, referee Michael Salisbury instantly flagged a penalty, which was joyfully overturned upon review as video footage demonstrated that Brighton striker Facundo Buonanotte got the ball.
Despite the contentious environment and hectic start, it was Chelsea that seemed to have the upper hand. Noni Madueke and Palmer already had their shots saved by Brighton’s goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, who made a remarkable save at the 26-minute mark to block Malo Gusto’s deflected attempt.
Eventually, Chelsea gained a lead with 11 minutes remaining in the first half, with the controversial Cucurella playing a key role, providing a fine assist for Palmer who scored with a powerful header.
Brighton’s key figure Roberto De Zerbi remains unwavering in his drive to finish the challenging season, marred with injury woes and Europa League commitments, among the top-10. Simon Adingra nearly nailed their first goal in the early plays, hitting slightly wide in the 10th minute after an impressive team effort.
Chelsea had to bring in Nkunku as a substitute for Mykhailo Mudryk, who had sustained an injury. They held a strong position to gain a two-goal lead by the break. A foul by Nicolas Jackson on Tariq Lamptey resulted in the nullification of a goal from an inswinging Benoit Badiashile cross; Jackson had an additional opportunity but headed Palmer’s cross above the bar during the additional time in the first half.
Chelsea narrowly escaped some missed opportunities from their opponents when Pedro’s forceful header hit the crossbar after being supplied by Lamptey. Chelsea sighed in relief when Dunk, Brighton’s captain, didn’t come back after the interval. Gusto, the French defender, avoided a penalty, apparently bringing down Adingra, while Pascal Gross missed a chance from close quarters.
An equalising goal by Brighton seemed very much on the cards until their hopes were dashed in the 64th minute. Gusto was set up by Madueke for a cross, which Nkunku turned into his first goal since the start of the year. Brighton’s situation could have deteriorated further, but their goalkeeper, Verbruggen, was only shown a yellow card for taking down Jackson outside his area.
James, the Chelsea defender, wasn’t so lucky. In his second appearance since December—his play time limited due to injury—he was sent off after stepping on Pedro post-tackle, as revealed by a VAR review. Adingra’s shot hit the left post, but Welbeck seized Pedro’s cross to score in the seventh bonus minute, thereby fanning the flames of suspense.