Ten‑man Manchester City beats United at Trafford with ten men
Manchester City secured a win on Sunday at Old Trafford despite playing seventy minutes with ten men, thanks to a goal from Erling Haaland. Under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, the side managed to win the Manchester Derby against United.
Red card changes dynamics
In the first half Phil Foden was involved in a duel with Bruno Fernandes, after which the Portuguese player struck the Englishman's back and made an odd movement. Referee Michael Oliver sent Foden off with a red card, forcing City to continue with ten men. The red card caused a clear shift in the match dynamics.
Manchester United started the derby with Marcus Rashford in the starting eleven, while Joshua Zirkzee initially sat on the bench and was later brought on. A free kick from Rashford struck the post, and shortly after Kobbie Mainoo hit the aluminum of the goal line. United created several chances but could not force a goal.
Haaland provides decisive goal
In the second half Erling Haaland found himself near the far post and struck a ball that was initially blown out by the assistant for offside. After a minute-long consultation, the video referee approved the goal, putting City 0‑1 up. It was Haaland's ninth goal in a Manchester Derby, a record never before achieved by a single player.
The two expensive new midfielders at City, Elliott Anderson and Enzo Fernández, tried to boost the attack, but Fernández hit the post just as Marc Guehi, who was standing next to a free kick, also struck it. United's defence held firm, but the pressure persisted. The ball sometimes fell to the opponent, but neither team could extend the lead.
In the final minute Gianluigi Donnarumma made a spectacular save from a shot by Mbeumo, who could have scored from close range. Despite the chance, City held onto the lead and recorded an extremely impressive victory with ten men.
With four wins from four games, City under Maresca remains top of the Premier League, alongside Arsenal. United sit thirteenth with four points, a clear lag. But a moment of tension ended in a win for City, who now continue their unbeaten run.