Controversial red card spurs City as Haaland decides Manchester Derby

Manchester City secured a 1‑0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on 13 September 2026 despite a Controversieel Rood card for Phil Foden in the 23rd minute, with Erling Haaland providing the decisive Doelpunt in the 60th minute for the home side.

Phil Foden received a Rood card in the 23rd minute after a challenge on Bruno Fernandes, a decision that referee Michael Oliver deemed Controversieel. The dismissal left City with ten men for the majority of the match, forcing them to adapt their tactics while United pressed for an equaliser. United’s midfield struggled to capitalise, as City’s compact shape limited clear chances.

Erling Haaland broke the deadlock in the 60th minute, latching onto a through ball and slotting home the Doelpunt. The striker positioned himself between the penalty spot and the six‑yard box, making the finish appear effortless. The goal stood after a VAR check, confirming the striker’s finish as legitimate.

Substitutions and bookings

United’s Marcus Rashford saw his free‑kick crash against the post shortly before half‑time, a missed chance that heightened the tension. In the second half, Youri Tielemans was withdrawn for Benjamin Sesko in the 79th minute (Verv.), while Enzo Fernández received a yellow card in the 82nd minute and was replaced by Nico O'Reilly a minute later (Verv.). Joško Gvardiol and Harry Maguire each added a yellow card in the 81st minute, reflecting the match’s physical intensity. The flurry of bookings underscored the derby’s fierce rivalry.

City goalkeeper Senne Lammens made several crucial saves, including a reflex stop that denied Enzo Fernández from doubling United’s lead. His composure under pressure helped City maintain their slim advantage throughout the second half. At the final whistle, Gianluigi Donnarumma produced a spectacular save from a Mbeumo strike, preserving United’s solitary goal.

The encounter marked the 199th Manchester Derby and ended a three‑year run in which City had failed to win at Old Trafford. With the 1‑0 result, City broke that streak and moved ahead in the Premier League table. The victory also kept City within striking distance of the league leaders as the season progresses.

Broadcast and wider sport context

De broadcast also featured an Overzicht of Voetbal alongside coverage of Wielrennen, Tennis, Formule 1, Basketbal and Atletiek on the same Programma, with Hoofdpunten from the Jupiler Pro League, Challenger Pro League, Champions League, Europa League and Conference League. Meer content was streamed LIVE on Facebook, allowing fans to follow the Derby alongside other Wedstrijden across the sport calendar. This multi‑sport approach highlighted the breadth of the weekend’s athletic programme.