In a dramatic Premier League clash that had everything, Chelsea's hopes of a comeback were brutally extinguished after goalkeeper Robert Sanchez received a straight red card deep into stoppage time at Old Trafford.
The Blues, who had fought back into the game thanks to a sublime Cole Palmer goal, fell to a 2-1 defeat against Manchester United in a match defined by penalty drama and a controversial sending-off.
McTominay's Brace and Palmer's Response
The match ignited early when Scott McTominay, capitalising on a defensive lapse, fired United ahead in the first half. The Scottish midfielder then looked to have sealed the points, doubling the lead after the break to send the Old Trafford faithful into delirium.
However, Chelsea were handed a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty. The ever-cool Cole Palmer stepped up and dispatched it with unerring confidence, setting up a grandstand finish.
Sanchez's Moment of Madness
With Chelsea pushing desperately for an equaliser, the game's major talking point arrived in the 99th minute. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, venturing forward for a late corner, handled the ball well outside his area in a moment of sheer desperation.
Referee Jarred Gillett had no option but to produce a straight red card, reducing Chelsea to ten men and effectively ending their challenge. The bizarre incident left stand-in keeper Đorđe Petrović to see out the final seconds in goal.
The result piles more pressure on Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino, while offering a vital reprieve for Manchester United's Erik ten Hag after a difficult period.
