Marc Cucurella’s well-timed header handed Chelsea a crucial 1-0 win over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Friday night, boosting their push for a Champions League spot.
With Aston Villa securing three points earlier in the evening, the pressure was on Enzo Maresca’s side to respond, and they did just enough.
The breakthrough came in the second half, courtesy of a moment of brilliance from captain Reece James, who opted against shooting and instead picked out Cucurella at the back post with a pinpoint cross.
The Spaniard rose unmarked to nod home his seventh goal of the campaign.
United had their moment when Harry Maguire thought he had given the visitors the lead, only to see his powerful finish ruled out for offside in the buildup.
Chelsea also nearly went ahead earlier through James, whose swerving strike from distance rattled the post and left Andre Onana rooted.
The result moves Chelsea back into the top four race, keeping pace with Villa as the season enters its final stretch.
United, meanwhile, continue to falter under Ruben Amorim, with their inconsistencies now threatening even a Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur on the 21st.