(Bournemouth – Manchester United 0–1) A brass strike from Casemiro (31) sent Manchester United well into Champions League action.

Manchester United have been breathing down Liverpool’s neck for the final Champions League spot, however the rivals only managed a draw against Aston Villa.

– I don’t care what happens at Liverpool. It’s about us. We have to do the job, said Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag after the game.

There isn’t much work left for Manchester United. They need just one point from their last two Premier League matches to be assured of playing in the Champions League.

Less than 10 minutes had passed before Christian Eriksen chipped the ball to the Brazilian. From four meters out, Casemiro spun and kicked the ball over the crossbar and in, what could almost be described as a brass kick.

– The only criticism I have to make is that we didn’t kill the game early, said ten Hag.

The rivals from Liverpool are just a point behind before Saturday’s round, albeit with a game to go, but against Aston Villa they were disappointed. Roberto Firmino played his last game for Liverpool at Anfield this time around, and he scored just before extra time, but it ended in a draw.

It could have ended in a draw at Bournemouth too. In extra time, Marcos Senesi tapped in and the ball over the bar, but Manchester United survived the scare and the away team could take the three points north to Manchester.

Manchester United faced Chelsea and Fulham at home in their last two league outings.

It was a delight for Bournemouth that David Brooks (25) started his first game in 598 days. Bournemouth player diagnosed with lymphoma in October 2021. He has been cancer free since May 2022, but his return to top-flight football will take time.