Manchester United pulled off a thrilling 2–1 win over Chelsea at Old Trafford on 6 December 2023, a result that kept fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish. With moments of brilliance, tactical discipline, and a match-winning performance from Scott McTominay, the Red Devils managed to edge out a resilient Chelsea side.

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Teams

Manchester United: Onana, Shaw, Maguire, Lindelof (Reguilon 46′), Dalot, Amrabat, Garnacho (Evans 90′), Fernandes, McTominay, Antony, Hojlund (Rashford 84′)

Subs: Bayindir, Wan-Bissaka, Van de Beek, Mainoo, Martial, Pellistri

Chelsea: Sanchez, Colwill, Silva, Disasi, Cucurella (James 46′), Fernandez, Caicedo, Mudryk (Broja 77′), Palmer, Sterling, Jackson

Subs: Petrovic, Gilchrist, Badiashile, Maatsen, Matos, Castledine, Washington

Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea

Manchester United earned a thrilling 2–1 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford on 6 December 2023, much to the delight of their home fans. The Red Devils started the game with purpose, pressing high and creating chances early on. It was Scott McTominay who broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, reacting quickest in the box to slot home a crisp finish after sustained pressure from United. Although Bruno Fernandes had a penalty saved in the first half, the hosts maintained control and looked sharp in attack throughout the opening 45 minutes.

Chelsea, determined not to leave empty-handed, responded before halftime. Young forward Cole Palmer produced a moment of quality, threading a composed finish past David de Gea to level the score and give the Blues a lifeline. The goal energized Chelsea, but United’s defence, marshalled effectively in the middle, ensured the game remained finely poised as both sides headed into the interval on equal terms.

The decisive moment came in the second half, again courtesy of McTominay. In the 69th minute, he powered a header into the net from a perfectly delivered cross, restoring United’s lead and sending the Old Trafford faithful into raptures. Chelsea pushed for another equaliser, but Erik ten Hag’s men held firm, showing resilience and tactical discipline to secure the three points. The win offered United a vital boost in confidence and momentum as they continue to navigate a challenging Premier League season.

Talking Points

The standout story of the night was undoubtedly Scott McTominay, who scored both of Manchester United’s goals to secure all three points. His first, a sharp finish in the 19th minute, came after relentless pressure from the home side, while his second, a commanding header in the 69th minute, proved decisive. Beyond the goals, McTominay’s energy in midfield and ability to break up Chelsea’s play made him the heartbeat of United’s performance, reminding everyone of his importance to Erik ten Hag’s system.

Chelsea may have left Old Trafford empty-handed, but there were plenty of positives for the visitors, chief among them Cole Palmer’s fine equaliser just before halftime. Palmer’s composure and vision gave the Blues hope after United had started strongly, and his movement caused problems for the Red Devils’ defence throughout. While Chelsea struggled to convert their chances into goals, Palmer’s display was a reminder of the young talent they have at their disposal, even in tough away fixtures.

Another talking point was Manchester United’s ability to manage the game after taking the lead a second time. Chelsea pushed for an equaliser, but United’s defence, led by the experienced pairing in the backline, stood firm. Tactical adjustments from Erik ten Hag, switching formations and using substitutions to protect the lead, highlighted United’s growing maturity in closing out tight matches. It was a performance that combined skill, resilience, and strategic thinking, a blueprint that could serve them well in the rest of the season.