In a pulsating Manchester derby, Manchester City emerged triumphant with a 3-1 victory over rivals Manchester United. United shocked City by taking an early lead through Marcus Rashford’s spectacular long-range strike in the 12th minute. However, City responded emphatically, dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities.
City’s relentless pressure paid off in the 56th minute when Phil Foden unleashed a thunderous shot from outside the box to equalize. Foden then became the hero once again in the 80th minute, calmly slotting home his second goal to give City the lead. United’s hopes of a comeback were dashed in stoppage time when Erling Haaland sealed the win for City with a clinical finish.
The match was not without controversy, as United’s manager Erik ten Hag was booked for disputing City’s equalizing goal, alleging a foul on Rashford in the buildup. However, replays showed no foul, cementing City’s victory. With this crucial win, City closed the gap to just one point behind league leaders Liverpool, while United, despite their spirited effort, faced disappointment but demonstrated promise in a challenging fixture.