Manchester United’s hopes of a Champions League qualifying spot took a serious blow on Sunday, as Louis Van Gaal’s men were humbled 3-0 at White Hart Lane, with all three goals coming in just six minutes in the second half.
Manchester United and Tottenham still have a chance
The Red Devils now sit 4 points behind Manchester City with just six league fixtures remaining, meaning their rivals will have to stumble for United to make it to the European stage next season. Spurs’ faint title hopes stay alive with the victory, keeping pace with leaders Leicester City who have a seven point cushion over the London side.
Traffic Issue points to dysfunction at Manchester United
United’s arrival at White Hart Lane did not go to plan, as the bus got stuck in traffic leading to a 30-minute delay and a shortened warm-up for the visitors. The first half was evenly-matched, with United dominating possession, though neither side managing a shot on target. In the second, with around 20 minutes remaining and the match looking set for a goalless draw, Tottenham came alive in front of a full house of 35,000 plus spectators.
United’s official team site breaks down Tottenham’s three late tallies: “Alli notched the first with a cool finish past De Gea from Eriksen’s left-wing cross and Alderweireld swiftly headed home the second from Lamela’s pinpoint free-kick. Argentina international Lamela then latched onto Danny Rose’s assist to complete the match’s decisive spell by drilling past the exposed De Gea.”
Being late to an official match is inexcusable, and it could have played a part in the poor performance.
Manchester United need to win the FA Cup
As Champions League qualification seems increasingly out of reach for United, any hopes for rescuing a disappointing season will now rest on the FA Cup competition, where they face West Ham in a quarter-final replay on Wednesday.
