Chelsea - Man United: Fernandes provides the assist, Cunha scores, United lead at halftime

Chelsea - Man United: Cunha opens the scoring, Red Devils ahead at the break

Europe 18 April 2026 at 15:57

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

Chelsea - Man United: Fernandes provides the assist, Cunha scores, United lead at halftime

18.04.26 FT English Premier League

Chelsea

Manchester United

The first half at Stamford Bridge lived up to expectations. Both teams delivered a lively opening period, although clear-cut chances were initially scarce. Chelsea tried to take control of the game, with Cole Palmer particularly lively, notably winning a dangerous free kick on the edge of the box in the 27th minute. Manchester United, meanwhile, proved lethal on the counterattack.

Matheus Cunha initially missed his chance in the 23rd minute, squandering a golden opportunity on an Mbeumo-led counter before picking up a yellow card for a clumsy foul on Hato. But the Brazilian made amends in the 43rd minute. Bruno Fernandes, set up by Mbeumo down the right flank, surged towards the byline before delivering a perfect cutback for Cunha, who finished with a crisp strike into the bottom corner.

Manchester United head to the dressing room with a deserved lead (1-0). It's worth noting that with this assist, Bruno Fernandes moves within two of the all-time Premier League single-season assist record, jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne with 20 assists.