Arsenal Corner Chelsea Into Submission, Man Utd Climb to Third

Gunners extend lead at top of Premier League, Sesko fires Man Utd to victory

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Arsenal reestablished a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 win over 10-man Chelsea, while Benjamin Sesko's goal helped Manchester United climb to third with a victory over Crystal Palace. Elsewhere, Tottenham's struggles continued under interim boss Igor Tudor with a 2-1 defeat at Fulham.

Why it matters

The results have major implications in the race for the Premier League title and Champions League qualification. Arsenal's win extends their lead at the top, while Manchester United's climb to third puts them in a strong position to return to the Champions League next season. Tottenham's defeat leaves them perilously close to the relegation zone, raising questions about the club's direction under Tudor.

The details

Arsenal's goals came from defenders William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, with the Gunners taking advantage of Chelsea's ill-discipline after Pedro Neto was sent off. Manchester United came from behind to beat Crystal Palace, with Bruno Fernandes scoring a penalty and setting up Benjamin Sesko's winner. Tottenham's loss at Fulham was their second straight defeat under Tudor, leaving them just four points above the relegation zone.

  • Arsenal and Chelsea played their match on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • Manchester United hosted Crystal Palace on the same day.
  • Tottenham's defeat at Fulham also took place on March 1, 2026.

The players

William Saliba

Arsenal defender who scored the opening goal against Chelsea.

Jurrien Timber

Arsenal defender who scored the winning goal against Chelsea.

Benjamin Sesko

Manchester United striker who scored the winning goal against Crystal Palace.

Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United midfielder who scored a penalty and provided an assist in the win over Crystal Palace.

Igor Tudor

Tottenham's interim manager who has failed to halt the team's alarming slide in his first two games in charge.

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What they’re saying

“It feels like a big result. We were behind and had to show some character.”

— Bruno Fernandes (Instagram)

“We were not good, (we) lacked everything attacking and defending. There are problems here, big problems. We need to stay calm, believe in what we are doing in training, and get out (of trouble), staying all together.”

— Igor Tudor, Tottenham Interim Manager (Sky Sports)

What’s next

Arsenal and Manchester City are set to meet in a crucial league match next month, while Tottenham will be looking to bounce back from their latest defeat when they face their next opponent.

The takeaway

Arsenal's win over Chelsea has strengthened their position at the top of the Premier League, while Manchester United's climb to third has put them in a strong position to qualify for the Champions League next season. However, Tottenham's continued struggles under their interim manager have left them dangerously close to the relegation zone, raising concerns about the club's direction.