Chelsea 0-1 Man Utd: Matheus Cunha strike leaves Blues’ UCL hopes in tatters

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Chelsea pushing forward in search of an equaliser while United remained compact and disciplined.

Delap again went close with a header that struck the crossbar, while Palmer fired wide and late pressure failed to produce a breakthrough.

Despite their attacking intent, the home side rarely looked composed in front of goal, extending a worrying run that has seen them fail to score in four consecutive league defeats.

The result leaves Chelsea’s Champions League hopes in serious doubt, with their recent form collapsing at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Supporter frustration was evident throughout the match, with chants of discontent growing louder as the game wore on and boos greeting the final whistle.

The victory represents a significant step towards securing a return to Europe’s top competition for United.

Manager Michael Carrick was forced to field a makeshift defence, but his side delivered a resilient performance built on organisation and determination.

The visitors now hold a stronger position in the race for the top four, while Chelsea are left to reflect on another night where dominance counted for little without end product.