Manchester United beat Chelsea 1-0 to strengthen their top-four bid, while Tottenham’s late collapse against Brighton leaves them deep in relegation trouble
MANCHESTER United took a significant step towards Champions League qualification with a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Chelsea.
Matheus Cunha’s first-half strike proved decisive, sweeping home Bruno Fernandes’ cross just before the interval to secure three vital points.
The win, United’s fourth in five league games under Michael Carrick, opens a 10-point gap over sixth-placed Chelsea.
“It was massive for us, a big win,” said Carrick. “To come here and keep a clean sheet like we did, and defend the way we did, I thought it was a magnificent performance.”
Chelsea’s fourth consecutive league defeat severely damages their own top-four ambitions.
At the opposite end of the table, Tottenham Hotspur’s relegation fears intensified after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Brighton.
Spurs twice surrendered the lead at home, with Georginio Rutter’s 95th-minute equaliser denying Roberto De Zerbi his first win as manager.
Pedro Porro’s early header was cancelled out by Kaoru Mitoma’s spectacular volley before half-time.
Xavi Simons’ stunning strike 13 minutes from time had appeared to secure a crucial victory for the hosts.
The late collapse leaves Tottenham 19th, just one point above the relegation zone, though West Ham have a game in hand.
“We have another five games, 15 points,” said De Zerbi. “And this team is able to win five games in a row.”
Brighton’s late goal also delayed Wolverhampton Wanderers’ mathematical relegation.
Wolves’ fate is virtually sealed, however, after a 3-0 defeat at Leeds United.
Goals from James Justin, Noah Okafor and a Dominic Calvert-Lewin penalty secured a comfortable win for Leeds, who now look assured of survival.
Elsewhere, Bournemouth increased the pressure on Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe with a 2-1 win at St James’ Park.
Marcus Tavernier and Adrien Truffert scored for the Cherries, who extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches.
Brentford missed a chance to move into the top six after a 0-0 draw with Fulham in a west London derby.
The weekend’s headline fixture sees leaders Arsenal travel to Manchester City on Sunday, with the Gunners holding a six-point advantage at the summit.
