In a thrilling encounter on Thursday, Cole Palmer emerged as the hero for Chelsea, securing a dramatic 4-3 victory over Manchester United. Palmer’s remarkable hat-trick, including two goals deep into stoppage time, left United reeling and dashed their hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
Under Erik ten Hag’s leadership, United rallied from a 2-0 deficit to take a 3-2 lead, creating an enthralling match that saw a combined 47 shots. However, Palmer’s late heroics turned the tide in Chelsea’s favor. He first leveled the score from the penalty spot in the 100th minute before netting the decisive winner moments later.
The defeat dealt a severe blow to United’s aspirations, leaving them 11 points adrift of fourth-placed Aston Villa with only eight games remaining in the season. Their dreams of competing in Europe’s elite club competition now hang by a thread.
Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea climbed to 10th place in the table with this crucial victory, keeping their European hopes alive.
Despite Chelsea’s 12-match winless streak against Manchester United in the Premier League, they seized an early lead through captain Conor Gallagher’s fourth-minute strike. Palmer then extended the home side’s advantage with his first penalty in the 19th minute, setting the stage for a tumultuous encounter.
