Two late goals by Manchester United snatched a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in a pulsating Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium. Manchester City had taken the lead in the first half through Josko Gvardiol’s header but saw their advantage erased in the dying moments by Bruno Fernandes’ penalty and Amad Diallo’s stoppage-time winner.
A Promising Start for Manchester City Ends in Heartbreak
Manchester City began the match on the front foot, showcasing their attacking intent from the opening whistle. With Matheus Nunes stepping in at left-back due to defensive absences, Manchester City effectively exploited the flanks. Jeremy Doku’s skillful display kept Manchester United’s defense on edge, with the winger earning a free kick early on by nutmegging Noussair Mazraoui.
Manchester City’s dominance paid off in the 30th minute when Kevin De Bruyne’s deflected cross from a corner found Gvardiol, whose powerful header left Andre Onana helpless. The hosts nearly doubled their lead before halftime when Phil Foden’s close-range effort was narrowly deflected wide, leaving Manchester City fans optimistic heading into the break.
Manchester United Struggles Before Late Surge
Manchester United, missing key opportunities and struggling to break through Manchester City’s high press, relied heavily on counterattacks. Amad Diallo twice found himself in threatening positions but was flagged offside each time. As Manchester City piled on the pressure, De Bruyne and Haaland combined to test United’s heavily manned defense, while Ederson made a crucial save to deny Diallo’s header in the 61st minute.
Despite their struggles, Manchester United began to show signs of life in the closing stages. Bruno Fernandes, in a pivotal moment, lifted his shot over Ederson, narrowly missing the target. With just four minutes left in regulation time, the tide turned dramatically in Manchester United’s favor. A short back pass from Nunes was intercepted by Diallo, leading to a clumsy foul inside the box. Fernandes coolly converted the resulting penalty to level the score.
Diallo Steals the Show with a Late Winner
The derby seemed destined for a draw until Manchester United capitalized on one final chance. In stoppage time, Diallo latched onto a loose ball inside the box and squeezed a shot past Ederson from a tight angle, sealing a memorable comeback for the visitors. The goal sent the away fans into raptures and left Manchester City rueing their missed opportunities and defensive lapses.
Manchester City’s frustrations were compounded by the fact that they had controlled much of the game but failed to capitalize on their dominance. Pep Guardiola’s men now sit fifth in the Premier League, one point shy of the Champions League spots, while United climbed further up the table with a crucial three points.
What’s Next for Manchester United and Manchester City?
he win lifts United into a competitive position as the Premier League race intensifies. With five matches remaining in December, including a crucial Carabao Cup quarterfinal clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday, United face a hectic schedule.
Meanwhile, City’s defeat sees them drop to fifth in the Premier League, just outside the Champions League qualification spots. Guardiola admitted his team’s lack of composure and creativity, promising to “find solutions” as they prepare for their next fixture.
This Manchester derby will be remembered for Amorim’s tactical mastery and Amad’s heroics, cementing a thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry between these two footballing giants. GUARDIOLA REACTION
“It’s not about this or that player; we gave away goals, our fault. We don’t play with composure. The results are not good, the game was not exceptional. I know the situation, I understand but the reality is this.
“They have to know that these situations happen. In the box you have to be careful. It’s not about Matheus, he played really good in not his position at full-back. But it’s not about that, we have to play better. The result will help us to take our best but right now we don’t have it. The way I learn is to keep going.
“I’m not good enough. I am the boss, the manager, I have to find solutions and so far I haven’t. That’s the reality.
“We want to play better, create chances. But at the moment it’s not possible
