Nigerian Fans Jubilate at Kano Watch Party as Red Devils Hold on to Chelsea 2-1 Win

In a match that had it all  – early red cards, controversial decisions, and a nail-biting finish – Manchester United scraped a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford on Saturday. For manager Ruben Amorim, it was a much-needed three points that will silence some of the critics, at least for now. This was a match that kept guests spellbound for the 90-minute game at the MTN EPL Watch Party in Amiingo Hotels, Sabon Gari, Kano yesterday.

The drama began almost as soon as the whistle blew. Just five minutes in, Chelsea’s goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, was given a straight red card for a foul on a charging Bryan Mbeumo. The sending-off, a first for a Premier League goalkeeper so early in a game, left the Blues playing with 10 men and forced them to bring on backup keeper Filip Jorgensen.

United wasted little time capitalising on their numerical advantage. Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring in the 14th minute, neatly finishing after a knockdown in the box. The home side doubled their lead in the 37th minute when Casemiro headed home from close range. It looked like a comfortable night was on the cards for the Red Devils.

But football, as they say, is a game of two halves. Just as United seemed to be cruising, they were dealt a shocking blow of their own. Deep in first-half stoppage time, Casemiro, already on a yellow card, was sent off for a second bookable offence after a rash foul on Andrey Santos. The moment of madness meant the playing field was level again, with both teams down to 10 men.

The second half was a different story entirely. Chelsea, with a newfound belief and numerical parity, began to push forward. They dominated possession, probing and testing the United defence. Their pressure finally paid off in the 80th minute when Trevoh Chalobah rose highest to meet a cross from Reece James, heading the ball into the net to make it 2-1.

The final ten minutes plus seven minutes of injury time were pure pandemonium. Chelsea threw everything they had at United’s goal, but a determined Red Devils defence, anchored by the likes of Luke Shaw and Matthijs de Ligt, held firm. The final whistle brought a roar of relief from the Old Trafford faithful, as United held on for a crucial win. This victory moves United to ninth in the Premier League table, offering a glimmer of hope and a lot of questions about what lies ahead for both teams.

Exhilarated football fans at the MTN EPL Watch Party were generous with their feedback following the live football match, as well as games and prizes that were won. Bright Connect, a 32-year-old Man United fan, said: “This match was pure madness. We started so well, got the lead, and then it felt like we’d end with a 1-0. But the boys showed up and made me proud today. That’s all that matters.’’