Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Ladbrokes’ post-match review of Manchester United 2-1 Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday, 20 September 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Blimey, what a cracking match at Old Trafford! Manchester United clinched a 2-1 victory over Chelsea, snapping their recent inconsistent form with a much-needed win. The Red Devils were on the back foot early on, but Bruno Fernandes' early strike set the tone, and Casemiro's goal just before halftime sealed the deal. Despite a late push from Chelsea with Chalobah's goal, United held firm, ending Chelsea's winning streak and proving they can still mix it with the big boys.

This result might've raised a few eyebrows, especially after United's thrashing by Manchester City last time out. But credit where it's due, they showed grit and determination, especially after Casemiro's red card. Chelsea, on the other hand, will be gutted to lose this one, especially after dominating possession. It's a reminder that in football, it's not always about who has the ball the most, but who makes the most of their chances.

The stats tell a tale of two teams with different approaches. Chelsea had the lion's share of possession at 59%, but it was Manchester United who made it count with their 41%. Both teams had an equal number of corners at five each, but United's efficiency in front of goal was the difference. The card count was high, with Chelsea picking up five yellows and a red, while United had two yellows and a red, plus a yellow/red for Casemiro.

What's surprising is the successful dribbles percentage, with Chelsea edging it at 44% to United's 38%. Despite this, United's clinical finishing and defensive resilience shone through. It's a reminder that stats don't always tell the full story, and sometimes it's the moments that matter most.

The game kicked off with a bang as Bruno Fernandes put United ahead in the 14th minute, a goal that set the tone for the match. Chelsea's hopes took a hit early on when Robert Sánchez saw red in the 5th minute, leaving them a man down for most of the game. Casemiro's goal in the 37th minute was a crucial moment, doubling United's lead and putting them in a strong position going into halftime.

The second half saw Chelsea fighting back, with Trevoh Chalobah pulling one back in the 80th minute. However, it was too little too late, and United managed to hold on despite Casemiro's red card in stoppage time. The substitutions made by both teams added fresh legs, but it was United's early lead and defensive solidity that ultimately secured the win.

Manchester United lined up with a solid 3-4-2-1 formation, and there were no real surprises in the starting XI. Bruno Fernandes was the standout performer, scoring the opener and leading the team from the front. Casemiro's impact was huge, scoring the second goal but also getting sent off, which made for a nervy finish. The substitutions brought on fresh legs, with Manuel Ugarte and Mason Mount adding energy in the second half.

Chelsea went with a 4-2-3-1 setup, and the early red card for Robert Sánchez threw a spanner in the works. Trevoh Chalobah was a bright spark, scoring the only goal for the Blues, but it wasn't enough. The substitutions tried to change the game's momentum, but with a man down, it was always going to be an uphill battle. Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernández picked up yellows, adding to the frustration for Chelsea.

Bruno Fernandes is Ladbrokes’ Man of the Match, and rightly so. His early goal set the tone for United's victory, and his leadership on the pitch was crucial. With one goal, one key pass, and a relentless work rate, Fernandes showed why he's the heartbeat of this Manchester United side.

Recent Premier League Matches:

• Win: 2-1 vs Chelsea (H)

• Loss: 0-3 vs Manchester City (A)

• Win: 3-2 vs Burnley (H)

• Draw: 1-1 vs Fulham (A)

Recent Premier League Matches:

• Loss: 1-2 vs Manchester United (A)

• Draw: 2-2 vs Brentford (A)

• Win: 2-0 vs Fulham (H)

• Win: 5-1 vs West Ham United (A)

Sitting in 10th place with 7 points, United will be looking to build on this win when they face Brentford, who are struggling in 17th with just 4 points. The match on September 27, 2025, is a chance for United to climb the table and gain some momentum. This result will give them confidence, but they'll need to stay focused and disciplined.

Chelsea, now in 6th place with 8 points, will be eager to bounce back when they take on Lincoln City in EFL Cup action on September 23, 2025. Despite the loss, they showed they can create chances and will need to convert those opportunities against Lincoln. This defeat might serve as a wake-up call, pushing them to be more clinical in front of goal.

• Brentford Vs Man United

• Leeds United Vs Bournemouth

• Chelsea Vs Brighton

• Man City Vs Burnley

• Aston Villa Vs Fulham

• Crystal Palace Vs Liverpool

• Nottingham Forest Vs Sunderland

• Tottenham Vs Wolves

• Newcastle Vs Arsenal

• Everton Vs West Ham

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Odds and market details are accurate as of the time of publication.