The Manchester derby delivered a dramatic climax as Manchester United snatched a late 2-1 victory against their rivals, Manchester City, at the Etihad Stadium. The result extended City’s dismal run to just one win in their last 11 matches across all competitions, leaving them languishing in fifth place, nine points adrift of league leaders Liverpool. United, on the other hand, climbed to 12th position, securing their second league win under the tutelage of new manager Ruben Amorim.
The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams exhibiting signs of nervousness and lacking the creative spark expected in such a high-profile encounter. City eventually broke the deadlock in the 36th minute, capitalizing on United’s vulnerability from set pieces. Josko Gvardiol rose highest to power home a header from a Kevin De Bruyne cross following a short corner, highlighting United’s persistent struggles in defending dead-ball situations.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with neither side managing to create clear-cut opportunities. United, however, gradually grew into the game and enjoyed the better chances, albeit without finding the finishing touch. The match appeared to be heading towards a narrow City victory until a moment of individual brilliance from Amad Diallo changed the course of the game.
With just four minutes remaining, Diallo’s persistence paid off as he won a penalty after being fouled by Matheus Nunes, who was attempting to rectify his own errant pass that had put the United forward through on goal. Bruno Fernandes stepped up and coolly converted the spot kick, sending Ederson the wrong way and levelling the score.
The drama didn’t end there. In the dying seconds of the match, Diallo produced a moment of magic to secure a memorable victory for the Red Devils. Latching onto a long pass, he skillfully rounded Ederson and slotted the ball into the empty net from a tight angle, sparking wild celebrations amongst the travelling United supporters.
The victory was a significant boost for Amorim, justifying his bold decision to omit both Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from the matchday squad. Diallo, the 22-year-old Ivorian winger, emerged as the hero, showcasing his composure and clinical finishing in the crucial moments. His performance echoed his heroics in the previous season’s FA Cup, where he scored a late winner against Liverpool, further cementing his reputation as a player for the big occasion.
For City, the defeat piles further pressure on Pep Guardiola. The reigning champions appear devoid of confidence and belief, struggling to grind out results even against a United side that lacked a cutting edge for much of the game. The result raises serious questions about their title defense and the increasing likelihood of significant investment in the January transfer window to salvage their season.
The contrasting fortunes of the two Manchester clubs were starkly evident. United, under Amorim’s guidance, showed resilience and a late surge of energy, while City’s current form suggests deeper underlying issues. The derby victory may prove to be a turning point for United, injecting much-needed confidence and momentum into their campaign. For City, the road to recovery appears arduous, with Guardiola facing a mounting challenge to revitalize his struggling squad.
