Manchester United delivered a crushing blow to faltering Premier League champions Manchester City with a sensational 2-1 comeback victory at the Etihad on Sunday. Late goals from Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo transformed a scrappy derby into an unforgettable night for the Red Devils, leaving the home side reeling.
Ruben Amorim’s United appeared destined for a third straight league defeat as Josko Gvardiol’s 36th-minute header put City ahead. The hosts looked to be cruising to a much-needed win in a tense, low-quality affair. But in a jaw-dropping final act, Amorim’s men turned the game on its head.
A defensive calamity by Matheus Nunes gifted United a lifeline in the 88th minute. Nunes’ clumsy backpass led to a foul on Diallo, and Fernandes stepped up to calmly convert the penalty, silencing the Etihad. Before City could recover, Diallo struck a dagger to their hopes, squeezing a stunning finish from an impossibly tight angle to spark delirium among the visiting fans.
City, now winless in 10 of their last 11 matches across all competitions, remain fifth in the table. Meanwhile, Amorim’s United climbed to 12th, breathing life into a campaign that had looked in jeopardy.
Drama and Chaos in the First Half
Neither side started with much rhythm, a reflection of their recent struggles. United manager Ruben Amorim made bold pre-match calls, omitting Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from the squad. His plans took an early hit when Mason Mount limped off injured in the 14th minute, forcing the introduction of young Kobbie Mainoo.
City took time to settle, their first real chance coming when Phil Foden volleyed wide in the 20th minute. Amad Diallo, threatening at the other end, hit the post but was flagged offside. Frustration among the City faithful turned to relief in the 36th minute when Kevin De Bruyne’s deflected cross found Gvardiol, who headed City in front.
Tempers Flare, But United Hold Their Nerve
The first half boiled over when Kyle Walker and Rasmus Højlund clashed in a heated exchange, earning both yellow cards in a melee that reflected the simmering tensions on the pitch.
The second half seemed to be heading for an uneventful close until United’s dramatic late surge rewrote the script. In two breathtaking minutes, they snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, handing City another bitter blow in their faltering title defence.
Manchester City vs Manchester United starting 11
Manchester City starting 11: Ederson, Kyle Walker, Dias, Gvardiol, Gundogan, de Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, Nunes, Foden, Doku, Haaland.
Manchester City subs: Ortega Moreno, Stone, Kovacic, Grealish, Savinho, Simpson-Pusey, Mubama, O'Reilly, McAttee
Manchester United starting 11: Onana, Mazraoui, De ligt, Maguire, Martiznez, Mount, B Fernandes, Hojlund, Amad, Dalot, Ugarte.
Manchester United Subs for today's match: Bayindir, Lindelof, Malacia, Yoro, Casemiro, Eriksen, Mainoo, Antony, Zirkzee
 "Man City vs Man United HIGHLIGHTS, MCI 1-2 MUN at Full Time: Red Devils emerge victorious")
