Manchester City outclassed Manchester United 3 0 in the 197th Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium, ending their mini-slump emphatically. Phil Foden opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a precise header off a cross from Jérémy Doku. United never really recovered. In the second half, Erling Haaland doubled the lead with a chip over the goalkeeper, then added a second late on after capitalizing on a turnover.
Haaland and Foden Shine
Haaland’s brace took him to seven goals across club and international matches for the week. He nearly had a hat trick but struck the post. Foden’s goal was his first in the league this season, coming after some early criticism for not starting regularly. Both players combined brilliantly with Doku, who caused trouble for United’s defenders throughout. Meanwhile, City’s goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, in his first derby appearance, made several important saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Weaknesses Exposed in United’s Performance
United’s defense looked shaky. On the first goal Luke Shaw failed to handle Doku’s run, allowing Foden space to head in. For the second goal United lost possession in midfield, and for the third they were caught out by a fast counter. United created few clear chances and looked out of sync in midfield. Their passing was disjointed and their attack lacked punch. Ruben Amorim later admitted the goals were avoidable.
Turning Point for City, Concern for United
The win stops City’s two game losing run and gives them momentum to climb the table. United, on the other hand, remain in a poor run as they have won only one of their first four matches and continue to struggle for consistency. The result raises more questions about their defensive structure and whether Amorim’s tactics are working under pressure.
What Fans Will Talk About
Both sets of fans will remember this one for Foden’s early goal, Haaland’s ruthless finishing, and United’s inability to ever get back into the match. The refereeing and crowd atmosphere also got attention, especially in moments when United looked like they might push forward. For City supporters, the clean sheet and dominance provide proof that they can still control big games. For United fans, this will be another lesson in how much work lies ahead.
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