Rasmus Hojlund ended his 10-game scoring drought to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory for Manchester United against Newcastle at Old Trafford.
A defeat would have seen Erik ten Hag’s side endure their lowest league finish in 34 years. However, the win means they go into the final day needing to better Newcastle’s result to secure a place in next season’s Uefa Conference League.
Alternatively, a victory against Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley on 25 May would see them qualify for the Europa League.
Kobbie Mainoo opened the scoring for Manchester United after 31 minutes with a composed finish from 10 yards, staying onside thanks to Kieran Trippier’s pass.
Anthony Gordon equalized four minutes into the second half, and Manchester United were fortunate not to fall behind as Sofyan Amrabat made a brilliant tackle to deny Alexander Isak on a three-on-one counterattack.
Amad Diallo restored Manchester United’s lead just before the hour mark with his first Premier League goal, capitalizing on Newcastle’s failure to clear a corner. Despite a close call as Miguel Almiron narrowly missed turning in a low cross from Gordon at the far post, Manchester United held on.
Hojlund then eased home nerves with his 15th goal of the season, confidently slotting a low finish into the bottom corner.
Newcastle did manage to pull one back in stoppage time through left-back Lewis Hall’s strike from the edge of the box, but it was too late to mount a comeback.
Newcastle now need a win at Brentford on the final day to secure a top-seven finish.