United Rise to the Occasion as City Fall at Old Trafford
- Manchester United delivered a powerful statement in the Manchester derby, beating Manchester City 2-0 at Old Trafford to claim revenge for their earlier defeat and hand Michael Carrick a memorable first league win back in the dugout.
Manchester United produced one of their most complete performances of the season to beat Manchester City 2-0 in the Premier League, restoring pride at Old Trafford and reigniting belief among the home faithful.
After a tense and goalless first half, in which United saw two goals ruled out for offside and Harry Maguire rattled the crossbar, the hosts finally found their breakthrough in the 65th minute. Captain Bruno Fernandes threaded a perfectly weighted pass through City’s defence, releasing Bryan Mbeumo, who kept his composure to fire past Gianluigi Donnarumma and send the stadium into eruption.
City attempted to respond through spells of possession, but they struggled to penetrate a disciplined United back line. Pep Guardiola’s side looked short of ideas, with Erling Haaland largely isolated and limited to half chances.
United doubled their advantage in the 76th minute to effectively seal the contest. Substitute Matheus Cunha burst down the right flank and delivered a dangerous low cross, which Patrick Dorgu met with a well timed run to finish confidently from close range.
The home side continued to threaten, hitting the post late on through Amad Diallo, while Mason Mount had a goal chalked off for offside in stoppage time. None of that mattered as the final whistle confirmed a famous derby victory.
The result marked United’s first win in five league matches and made Michael Carrick’s return to the touchline a night to remember. For City, it was a frustrating afternoon, as their dominance in possession failed to translate into goals against a committed and fearless rival.
