Manchester City secured the bragging rights in the Manchester derby after cruising to a 3-0 win over Manchester United on Sunday evening.
Premier League
Result: Manchester United 0-3 Manchester City
Date: 29 October 2023
Venue: Old Trafford
Man United made only one change from their win over Sheffield United, as Christian Eriksen was recalled in place of Antony. Man City, meanwhile, recalled goalkeeper Ederson, Ruben Dias and Jack Grealish.
Pep Guardiola's charges had a quick start and should have been ahead within eight minutes after goalkeeper Andre Onana parried a header by Phil Foden on the path of Erling Haaland but the Norwegian's effort was cleared off the line by Harry Maguire.
The Citizens gained momentum and Haaland eventually broke the deadlock on 26 minutes from the penalty spot after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) spotted a foul by Hojlund, who tugged the shirt of Rodri in the box.
The game opened up but the Red Devils had to wait up until the stroke of half-time to get close to the equaliser, as Scott McTominay produced a reflex save from goalkeeper Ederson with a volleyed shot.
City had a big chance themselves immediately thereafter but Onana kept United in the game as he also showed great reflexes to keep out a looping header by Haaland.
The second stanza continued in the same vein but it was Guardiola's men who doubled their lead four minutes in courtesy of Haaland's header at the back post, who also completed his brace, after a cross by Bernardo Silva.
The Red Devils were under pressure after that, with City creating plenty of chances and with 13 minutes to go, Erik ten Hag made a tactical and attacking change, as Alejandro Garnacho replaced Rasmus Hojlund.
However, the Citizens remained on top of the game as Foden sealed the three points three minutes later with a tap-in into an empty net after a cut-back by Haaland, who pounced on a rebound after Onana saved Rodri's shot.
Man United had some energy going forward in the dying minutes after they introduced the likes of Anthony Martial and Antony but City were already home and dry, as they moved up to third on the log, two points behind leaders Tottenham Hotspur and equal on points with second-placed Arsenal.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments