Manchester United stunned Manchester City with a breathtaking 2-1 comeback victory at the Etihad Stadium, delivering a gut punch to their neighbors’ dwindling season. With United’s Ruben Amorim and City’s Pep Guardiola both under the microscope amid woeful runs of form, the clash carried a rare air of vulnerability on both sides—a far cry from the titanic battles of recent years.
The match began with nervy uncertainty, reflecting the tepid seasons both clubs are enduring. The Red Devils suffered an early blow when Mason Mount limped off in the 13th minute, further depleting an already fragile midfield. City, however, failed to capitalize on the disarray, with Phil Foden’s speculative volley wide the only notable action in a cagey opening half-hour.
It took a set piece to finally break the deadlock in the 36th minute. A short-corner routine found Kevin De Bruyne’s cross, which deflected kindly to Joško Gvardiol. The Croatian defender powered home a header to expose United’s Achilles’ heel—defending corners. It marked their eighth concession from such scenarios this season, prompting visible frustration from Amorim on the touchline.
United’s first-half struggles continued, registering zero shots on target for only the second time this season. Amad Diallo injected some urgency after the break, his headed effort forcing a fingertip save from Ederson, but City’s grip on the match remained firm as United’s attackers misfired.
A pivotal moment arrived in the 74th minute when Rasmus Højlund, who worked tirelessly all game, slipped Bruno Fernandes through on goal. With just Ederson to beat, the Portuguese star inexplicably chipped wide, a miss that seemed destined to haunt United. Moments later, Højlund was left fuming after being brought down by Rúben Dias in the box, only for the referee to wave play on.
Yet Amad Diallo had other ideas. Pouncing on a catastrophic backpass from Matheus Nunes in the 87th minute, the Ivorian was brought down inside the penalty area, earning a lifeline for the visitors. This time, Fernandes was clinical, sending Ederson the wrong way to level the scores.
The final twist came deep into injury time. Lisandro Martínez, showcasing his trademark composure, floated an exquisite long ball over the City defense. Amad’s sublime first touch rounded Ederson, and his cool finish sparked wild celebrations in the away end.
City, now with just one win in 11 games across all competitions, slumped to their knees as United savored a victory that felt like a turning point in their tumultuous season.
