EPL: Chelsea defeats Manchester United in a thrilling seven-goal match

Cole Palmer, the hat-trick hero, scored twice in stoppage time on Thursday as Chelsea beat Manchester United 4-3, almost eliminating United’s chances of making it into the Champions League for the following season.

In an incredible game that included a total of 47 shots, Erik ten Hag’s team came back from a 2-0 deficit to lead 3-2, seemingly headed for a historic triumph.
Palmer, however, had the final say as he scored the winner just moments after tying the score in the 100th minute from the penalty spot.

With eight games remaining, United’s defeat drops them to fourth place, 11 points behind Aston Villa, and they will now play their season outside of Europe’s top club competition.

However, it propels Mauricio Pochettino’s team to 10th position in the table, continuing their search for European places.

Conor Gallagher, the captain of Chelsea, gave them the lead in just the fourth minute of play. Chelsea had not defeated Manchester United in twelve Premier League encounters prior to this one.

Palmer’s first penalty in the 19th minute gave the home team a two-goal lead after a wild start for Ten Hag’s squad.

However, as the match heated up, goals from Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho in a five-minute span midway in the first half brought the visitors level.

In an exciting second half, play veered wildly from end to end, but in the 67th minute, Garnacho headed in a precise cross from Antony to give United the lead.

The officials announced eight minutes of extra time, even though the visitors looked poised for a victory that would raise their spirits.

Diogo Dalot’s shove at Noni Madueke gave Chelsea a lifeline, and referee Jarred Gillett’s on-field decision to award a penalty kick was validated following a protracted VAR check.

However, the drama continued after that.

Enzo Fernandes took a quick corner and played it short to Palmer, catching United off guard.

With the aid of a deflection, the Chelsea player blasted home past the heartbroken Onana to secure the three points and electrify the Stamford Bridge crowd.

AFP