Manchester United pulled off a stunning 2-1 comeback victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, with Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes stepping up in the dying minutes to secure bragging rights in the 195th Manchester derby.
Trailing 1-0 after a first-half header by Josko Gvardiol, United looked to be heading for defeat. City’s dominance, led by Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden in midfield, kept the Red Devils under pressure for much of the game. However, everything changed in the final five minutes when Amad pounced on a loose backpass from Matheus Nunes, forcing the City player into a reckless foul inside the box. Fernandes calmly converted the penalty to level the score. Moments later, Amad turned hero once again, delivering a spectacular volley from a tight angle to seal the dramatic win.
The victory not only gives United crucial Premier League points but also deepens City’s struggles, with Guardiola’s side now losing eight of their last 11 games in all competitions.
United manager Ruben Amorim made bold decisions before the match, dropping Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho. Mason Mount, making his return, was forced off with an injury just 15 minutes in, leaving Kobbie Mainoo to impress as a substitute. Meanwhile, City’s Erling Haaland was largely anonymous, registering just six touches in the first half and failing to trouble United’s defense.
Amad’s electrifying performance earned him Man of the Match honors, with 92% of fans voting for the 22-year-old. This marks his third award this season, following standout performances against PAOK and Everton. His relentless energy and decisive contributions have made him a key figure for United, with captain Bruno Fernandes describing him as “unstoppable” in post-match interviews.
“Amad showed why he’s vital to this team. He’s always alive, always ready to make an impact. When he plays like this, he’s unstoppable,” Fernandes said after the game.
City’s lackluster form is becoming a growing concern for Guardiola, whose side failed to capitalize on their dominance. Despite enjoying 52% possession and outshooting United 10-3 in the first half, they couldn’t maintain their composure when it mattered most.
United’s win shifts momentum in their favor as they aim to climb the league table, while City faces questions about their consistency and form.
Key Match Statistics
| Statistic | Man City | Man United |
|---|---|---|
| Possession (%) | 52 | 48 |
| Shots | 10 | 10 |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 3 |
| Corners | 8 | 2 |
| Saves | 1 | 2 |
