Manchester United reacted positively from their first defeat under their interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as they beat Chelsea 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.
This was the first time Man United have beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge since the famous 3-2 victory for United during Sir Alex Ferguson’s last season as the manager of the club.
Chelsea started the match brightly, as they control possession with Eden Hazard showing glimpses of his world-class ability on the ball. He was constantly targeted by the men in red shirts during the opening few minutes of the first half, trying to keep him out of the game.
More from Chelsea
- “600 days” Fans make SHOCK Chelsea revelation – They really are poor
- Chelsea injury news: Most expensive midfielder is a doubt vs Aston Villa
- Chelsea: Mauricio Pochettino mandates a “ridiculous offer” to sell defender
- When should Chelsea start to panic about Mauricio Pochettino?
- Chelsea: HUGE boost as Pochettino starts “world-class” midfielder today
Sergio Romero produced a quick double save as David Luiz shot beyond the wall and quickly denying Pedro from the rebound. The United backup was in top shape on the night.
Man United grew into the match slowly and just past the half-hour mark, Mata, Lukaku and Pogba exchanged passes well before Pogba teeing Ander Herrera with a sublime pass to nod United into the lead.
Chelsea increased their tempo after Herrera’s goal but they could not find a way past the United defence. Solskjaer’s men increased their lead just before halftime as Pogba released Rashford on the Right side, who crossed the ball back to Pogba, who then put a thumping header past Kepa.
After the interval, the blues continued attacking the reds but their efforts were thwarted time and again by a resolute United defence led by Chris Smalling. William came on for Pedro but he could also not create any impact on the game as United held onto their 2-0 lead.
The result means a lot to Manchester United as the FA cup is one trophy that they could win this season, while Chelsea’s hopes of lifting the trophy again this season have been crushed.
The Red Devils are through to the sixth round of the FA Cup and they will be facing Wolves in the next round. United is also the first club since 1998/1999 season to knock out both, Arsenal and Chelsea in the same FA Cup tournament. United was also the last team to do so.
Manchester United will turn their attention towards Liverpool on Sunday at Old Trafford to keep their hopes of top 4 alive, while Chelsea will be facing Malmo in the Europa League round of 32 in the second leg. This happens before facing Man city in Wembley in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday.