Chelsea maintained their pursuit of a Champions League spot for next season with a tense 1-0 win against Manchester United on Friday, thanks to a goal by defender Marc Cucurella.

The Spanish full-back scored with a close-range header, converting a cross from captain Reece James, who outmaneuvered the United defense with skillful twists in the 71st minute.

"I knew I had space and time. I knew I placed the ball in a good spot, and this guy was always going to arrive," James told Sky Sports, standing next to Cucurella. Earlier, James had struck the post in the first half with a powerful shot, just after United defender Harry Maguire put the ball in the Chelsea net, but VAR ruled it narrowly offside.

Manchester United had limited other opportunities, while Chelsea remained anxious but in control for much of the game.

This result propelled Chelsea to fourth in the Premier League, surpassing Aston Villa, who had previously defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-0, with one match remaining for both teams.

"The Champions League is where the club belongs, competing in the top competitions," James said. The top five teams qualify for the Champions League, a goal Chelsea has chased since Enzo Maresca became coach at the season's start.

A relieved Maresca, his staff, players, and fans celebrated enthusiastically at the final whistle.

It was Chelsea's final home game of the season, with their form varying under the Italian manager, as they performed a lap of honor around the stadium before exiting. Their next fixture is away against Nottingham Forest, who are seventh and still vying for qualification, next weekend.

Manchester United, aiming to salvage their disappointing season by winning the Europa League final against another opponent next Wednesday, sit in 16th place.