Manchester United pulled off a dramatic 2-1 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Josko Gvardiol’s first-half header had given the hosts the lead, but a late penalty from Bruno Fernandes and a decisive strike from Amad Diallo sealed the comeback, handing Pep Guardiola’s side yet another frustrating defeat.
City take early control, United struggle
The match began with City dominating possession, but United’s high pressing limited their chances to capitalize early. United suffered an early blow when Mason Mount limped off injured just 14 minutes into the game, forcing an adjustment to their midfield setup.
Opportunities were scarce for both sides in the opening exchanges. Phil Foden came closest for City, sending a volley wide and seeing another effort deflected off target. Ruben Dias also squandered a header from a corner. Meanwhile, Amad Diallo missed a golden chance to put United ahead, dragging a one-on-one effort wide, though the offside flag quickly erased the embarrassment.
City eventually broke the deadlock ten minutes before halftime. A deflected cross caught United’s defense flat-footed, allowing Gvardiol to rise unchallenged and head the ball into the net. It was yet another goal conceded from a set-piece by United, exposing ongoing defensive vulnerabilities.
United rally late as City collapse
The second half saw United grow into the game, showing more energy and purpose. Despite this, their efforts lacked precision, with Amad’s speculative shot forcing a diving save from Ederson even though it was already heading off-target.
Bruno Fernandes squandered a key opportunity to level the score, miscuing a chipped attempt after being set up by Rasmus Hojlund. As time ticked away, United’s frustrations grew, but they found their lifeline in the 85th minute. A misplaced back-pass from Matheus Nunes gifted Amad a chance to break through, and Nunes’ desperate challenge resulted in a penalty. Fernandes confidently converted from the spot.
Minutes later, Amad turned hero. Chasing what seemed like a lost cause, he managed to outmaneuver Ederson and flick the ball into the net, completing United’s stunning comeback. City, who had reverted to their 3-2-4-1 formation in search of defensive solidity, were once again undone by lapses in concentration.
Talking points: Rashford, Garnacho, and Mount
Before kickoff, the absence of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from the matchday squad raised eyebrows. Manager Rúben Amorim cited a mix of reasons, dismissing speculation of injuries. While the bold decision left United short on attacking options, it ultimately paid off as Amad stepped up to deliver a match-winning performance.
Mason Mount’s early injury cast another shadow on the match. The midfielder had been thriving under Amorim’s high-energy tactics, but his departure raised concerns about the team’s attacking depth. Kobbie Mainoo replaced Mount and partnered Manuel Ugarte in midfield, leaving Bruno Fernandes to operate in a more advanced role.
For City, their defensive frailties were exposed once again. Gvardiol’s goal initially masked their vulnerabilities, but the late errors from Nunes proved decisive. Guardiola’s men, now with eight losses in their last 11 matches, face mounting pressure to turn their season around.
Despite their struggles, United’s fighting spirit and tactical adjustments after halftime shone through, earning them a memorable win against their city rivals. For City, questions linger about their defensive stability and mental resilience.
