The Theatre of Dreams is dreaming big again. Manchester United have tightened their vice-like grip on the Champions League places with a ruthless 2-0 dismantling of Tottenham Hotspur. In a match that showcased tactical discipline over flair, Erik ten Hag’s men proved they have the mettle to finish the season as the "best of the rest" behind the title contenders.

This was a statement victory. Tottenham arrived with hope but left broken, their game plan unraveling after Cristian Romero’s reckless red card reduced them to ten men. United, sensing blood, went for the jugular. The acquisition of Bryan Mbeumo has proven to be a masterstroke; his opening goal was a thing of beauty, a curling effort that signaled his arrival as a true Old Trafford favourite. When Bruno Fernandes added a second, the contest was effectively over.

The Mbeumo Factor

Bryan Mbeumo was the difference-maker. His pace and direct running terrified the Spurs backline all afternoon. The goal—a snapshot of his predatory instincts—broke the deadlock just when Spurs looked to be frustrating the hosts. "He gives us a dimension we have missed," Ten Hag beamed post-match. "He is direct, he is fearless, and he is clinical."

• The Romero Implosion: Tottenham’s discipline remains their Achilles' heel. Romero’s dismissal for a second yellow card was needless and costly, forcing his team into a defensive shell they could not maintain. It is a recurring nightmare for the North London side.
• Fortress Old Trafford: United’s home form is becoming formidable. By turning their ground into a fortress, they are grinding out results that seemed impossible just months ago. The clean sheet will please the manager as much as the goals.

The Top Four Race

With this win, United have opened a gap that looks increasingly unbridgeable for the chasing pack. While the title may be out of reach, securing fourth place is a financial and sporting imperative. For Spurs, the defeat is a hammer blow to their own ambitions, leaving them looking nervously over their shoulders.

As the Stretford End sang into the night, the mood was one of defiance and belief. Manchester United are not back to their peak yet, but they are climbing the mountain. Tonight, they stood on the neck of a rival and didn't let go. That is the United of old.