Manchester City emerged victorious with a 3-1 win against Manchester United, unfolding a captivating match. The much anticipated match already had Manchester City poised as the favourites against their staunch rivals The Red Devils. No wonder at kick off the feeling around the stadium was of a different feeling from the usual fixtures.
City demonstrated their determination early on with a corner in the first minute. A potential penalty claim arose in the second minute when Casemiro nudged John Stones. However, United seized a counter-attack opportunity in the fifth minute, with Garnacho delivering a ball for Rashford, saved by Emerson.
Unexpectedly, Rashford scored a long-range goal in the seventh minute, courtesy of Captain Bruno Fernandes’ assist. City intensified their efforts, with Onana blocking Foden’s shot in the fourteenth minute. In the 23rd minute, Rashford missed a golden chance, and a penalty appeal for Dalot’s supposed handball was dismissed.
By the half-hour mark, City dominated possession with 70% and seven attempts, compared to United’s two. Onana’s save thwarted Rodri’s powerful strike. Haaaland squandered another opportunity just before halftime, leaving the score 0-1 in favor of Manchester United.
Manchester City’s Second Half Come Back
The second half commenced similarly, with City taking charge. Phil Foden equalized in the 55th minute with a formidable strike. Pep Guardiola made a tactical substitution, bringing on Julian Alvarez for Jeremy Doku. In the 67th minute, Varane received a yellow card for fouling a goal-bound Haaaland. United’s manager, Erik Ten Hag, introduced Kambwala for Evans.
Rashford made way for Antony Santos, and despite claims of a foul on Garnacho, the replay showed Ederson reached the ball first. Foden secured a second goal in the 79th minute, bringing the score to 2-1. The home fans erupted in joy as City’s title aspirations were revived.
In the 90th minute, eight additional minutes were added, and Haaaland sealed the deal with a goal, concluding the match at 3-1. Liverpool leads the EPL table with 63 points, followed closely by Manchester City with 62 points. Arsenal, playing Sheffield United tomorrow, could reach 61 points with a victory. Manchester United, currently at 44 points, is set to face Everton on Saturday 9 March, while Manchester City is geared up for a Champions League clash against Copenhagen.
