Casmeiro scored a late equalizer to help Manchester United produce one of the close football scores of the weekend in the Premier League. Chelsea appeared to have secured all three points when Jorginho coolly converted a penalty in the 86th minute after substitute Scott McTominay foolishly fouled Armando Broja in the area. However, Casemiro completed a strong individual performance when his header was punched onto the post by Kepa Arrizabalaga and nearly crossed the goal line after coming down off the post in the fourth minute of time added on.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence was apparent as United dominated the opening half-hour without scoring. Chelsea’s momentum was rejuvenated before the break thanks to a smart tactical change by Potter, the addition of Mateo Kovacic, and the switch to a back four. The Premier League rankings have not moved since the tie; United is still in fifth place after extending its unbeaten record across all competitions to six games, and Chelsea is still in fourth position despite extending its unbeaten streak under Potter to eight games.
Kepa, who was in fine form, owes Chelsea a debt of gratitude for preventing United from dominating the match. As the quarter-hour mark drew near, the Spaniard deflected Antony’s curling attempt around the post, stopped the ball at Marcus Rashford’s feet following Bruno Fernandes’ through ball, and then blocked Rashford’s shot when he burst into the area from inside the Chelsea half.
Chelsea was on the verge of winning when Jorginho hopped, skipped, and leaped up to the penalty spot and tucked the ball past David de Gea, but United’s push for the win at the last end provided another dramatic twist. Deep into stoppage time, Casemiro leaped high to head in a cross from Luke Shaw. His effort was judged to have crossed the line despite Kepa’s heroic effort to tip the ball against the woodwork, setting up wild celebrations in the away end as United escaped with a point they undoubtedly deserved.
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