Rio Ferdinand has asserted that if Manchester United had been more focused and disciplined in the final moments, they could have prevented Cole Palmer from scoring the game-winning goal in their 4-3 loss to Chelsea.
Despite being ahead 3-2 in the 99th minute, Manchester United was unable to hold on as Chelsea scored two goals in the 100th and 101st minute, resulting in a dramatic victory for Erik ten Hag’s team.
Palmer secured the game-winning goal with a swift corner kick, as the Man United players were unable to respond to the threat and prevent the Chelsea player from scoring. This was a disappointment for Ferdinand, who could not believe that his former team had failed to properly defend against their opponent.
Ferdinand, speaking to TNT Sports, pointed out that Man United had lost focus. He emphasized the importance of concentration in these high-pressure games, stating that amidst all the chaos, it is crucial to have players who are fully engaged and focused.
As the corner kick is taken, all eyes are on the box, but Cole Palmer sneaks out to the corner unnoticed. He is the real threat, more dangerous than any other player on the field. Without any opposition, he can freely roam out wide.
“While it did deflect, if one is focused, professional, and aware of the gravity of the situation, they should not have allowed the opposing player to gain control and turn. Such lapses cannot be tolerated at this level of competition.”
By the 19th minute, Chelsea had already secured a two goal advantage with Conor Gallagher and Palmer scoring the goals.
Despite falling behind, Man United quickly retaliated and managed to equalize the score at 2-2 before halftime. Goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes were scored within a span of five minutes to bring the Red Devils back into the game.
In the 67th minute, Garnacho scored his second goal of the night, giving Ten Hag’s team a strong chance of securing all three points. However, in the 100th minute, a penalty was awarded to Palmer after Diogo Dalot was deemed to have fouled Noni Madueke in the box. Palmer successfully converted the penalty, equalizing the score at 3-3.
In just 82 seconds, Palmer achieved his first senior hat-trick when he was found at the edge of the box by a clever Chelsea corner. Despite the visitors’ efforts, they were unable to react in time and the 21-year-old’s shot, which was deflected, sailed past Andre Onana, causing jubilant celebrations at Stamford Bridge.
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