Manchester United delivered a stunning comeback in the dying moments to defeat Manchester City in a thrilling derby at the Etihad Stadium. Josko Gvardiol’s first-half header had seemed enough to secure victory for City in a largely uneventful clash until United turned the game on its head in the final minutes.
Amad Diallo stole the spotlight for United, first winning an 88th-minute penalty after being fouled by Matheus Nunes. Bruno Fernandes calmly converted the spot-kick to level the score. Just moments later, Diallo struck again, finishing from a tight angle to complete United’s remarkable turnaround.
New MU manager Ruben Amorim celebrated a statement victory early in his tenure, despite a rough start to the game when Mason Mount was forced off with an injury just 14 minutes in. Amorim’s bold decision to drop Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from the squad also raised eyebrows, but it ultimately paid off.
United looked to have wasted their best opportunity to equalise when Fernandes missed a chance 17 minutes from time, lifting his shot over Ederson but missing the target. However, the late drama silenced the Etihad crowd, leaving City fans fuming while United supporters erupted in celebration.
Amorim’s Big Decisions Deliver a Stunning Win
Few could have predicted the dramatic late twist in a game that had been uninspired for the most part. Yet, in the closing minutes, Manchester United gave manager Ruben Amorim a memorable victory that will strengthen his bond with the club’s supporters.
United created little throughout the game, aside from Fernandes’ missed chance, but Diallo’s energy and quick thinking changed the match. Diallo capitalised on a poor pass from Matheus Nunes in the 88th minute, forcing Nunes into a reckless foul inside the box. Fernandes, making up for his earlier miss, coolly converted the penalty.
In the dying moments of normal time, Diallo showcased his composure by squeezing in the winner from a tight angle, leaving the Etihad crowd stunned into silence, except for United’s jubilant fans. Amorim’s bravery in dropping high-profile players Rashford and Garnacho underlined his willingness to make tough calls, and the decision paid dividends. After losses to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, United’s return to winning ways could not have been more satisfying.
Man City’s Struggles Continue Amid Late Collapse
Manchester City’s recent woes deepened as they threw away a lead in the derby, further highlighting their ongoing struggles. Pep Guardiola’s side, once defined by their dominance and superiority, now appear vulnerable and far removed from their past glories.
City took the lead through Josko Gvardiol’s header, set up after Kevin De Bruyne’s effort was deflected, but it was one of the few bright moments for the reigning champions. Erling Haaland was isolated throughout the game, while the midfield lacked creativity. Even captain Kyle Walker drew criticism after a theatrical collapse in a confrontation with Rasmus Hojlund.
Guardiola’s frustration was evident as he watched his team squander their advantage. City’s inability to create meaningful opportunities and their defensive frailty allowed United to exploit them in the closing minutes.
This loss leaves City nine points behind league leaders Liverpool, having played a game more. Their Champions League campaign also hangs in the balance, making this a deeply troubling time for Guardiola. For a team that had seemed untouchable in recent years, the current crisis feels like uncharted territory.
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