Chelsea FCs hopes to beat Manchester United were dashed at Old Trafford after receiving a heavy defeat of 4-1 in their second-last match of the season.
Lampard’s side made early costly mistakes as they failed to capitalize on obvious chances. At the same time, defensive errors allowed Manchester United to score two more goals in the second half.
Chelsea key players Mykhailo Mudryk, Conor Gallagher, and Kai Havertz had first half massive chances that could have put Chelsea ahead.
However, the team was made to regret the chances, with Casemiro and Anthony Martial scoring in the first half to give the Red Devils a deserved control of the game.
Defensive Errors That cost Chelsea
Wesley Fofana, the former Leicester City star, made two obvious errors that led to goals. He fouled Fernandez leading to a penalty that was easily converted. Another huge mistake resulted from a poor pass that saw Rashford move the ball past Kepa.
Other defensive mistakes from the Captain, Cesar Azpilicueta, almost gave Manchester United more goals. The defender was unable to keep up with the pace of Alejandro Garnacho, who was sensational with classy performances.
After a shaky start in the previous games, Trevoh Chalobah showed great improvement by tackling the Manchester United strikers, blocking them from creating more goal-scoring opportunities.
However, Manchester United’s quick passes and counters were executed in the right way leading to goals.
Chelsea’s need for a natural number 9 is now clear as KaI Harvetz looked off as his slow pace and poor passing limited Chelsea from creating chances.
Chelsea Subs Generated Momentum
Frank Lampard’s late changes had a slight impact but didn’t get Chelsea into the game, as they scored a late consolation. Joao Felix again showed his master class as he single-handedly moved the ball from the midfield and fired right past De Gea.
This could be his second last game in the Blues shirt. However, the player might extend his loan spell in the coming season to prove his class and secure a permanent signature.
Christian Pulisic was also impactful, as his passes and display almost led to a goal. He had a fierce ball across the six-yard box. The American captain might need regular minutes to show his class.
Other subs were Ruben Loftus Cheek and Datro Fofana, who might need more game time to improve.
Manchester United Champions League Spot Assured
After thrashing Chelsea 4-1, Manchester United qualified for the Champions league and will be playing alongside other English teams like Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Arsenal FC, who were the runners-up for the Premier League.
Eric Ten Hag couldn’t hide his excitement once United qualified amid the competition for the top four spot. Teams like Liverpool piled pressure on Manchester United, and if United lost two games and Liverpool won, then chances of qualifying were narrow.
Chelsea, for the first time, will miss the Champions League, where they were winners of the 2012 and 2021 competitions.
Check out more Chelsea FC news.