AfriPulse
September 14, (THEWILL) — In the first Manchester derby of the season, City returned to winning form with a commanding 3-0 victory over United on Sunday afternoon.
The result ended a troubling two-match losing streak for Pep Guardiola’s side, who delivered their most convincing performance in months against their local rivals.
Phil Foden opened the scoring after 18 minutes with a close-range header, marking just his second English Premier League start since the previous derby five months earlier.
The Academy graduate operated in a central role while Bernardo Silva moved to the right wing, allowing Foden the space to convert from eight yards after Jérémy Doku’s involvement from the left flank exposed United’s two-man midfield.
Erling Haaland doubled the advantage in the 53rd minute with a composed finish following intricate passing play involving Foden and Doku.
The Norwegian striker had demanded improvement before kick-off, stating the team needed to “figure it out” after consecutive defeats.
His second goal arrived in the 68th minute when he raced clear into an undefended area and calmly slotted home.
United created late chances but failed to convert them, leaving Ruben Amorim’s side well beaten by their neighbours.
City’s fluid movement repeatedly exposed the visitors’ defensive structure, with players weaving through United’s formation with relative ease throughout the encounter.
The defeat leaves Ruben Amorim facing mounting pressure regarding his tactical approach, with United’s defensive frailties once again exposed in worrying fashion.
The Portuguese manager watched his side’s two-man midfield become overwhelmed by City’s fluid movement, while his defensive structure appeared static and unable to cope with the hosts’ interchange of positions.
United’s inability to convert their late opportunities compounds concerns about both defensive solidity and attacking efficiency under Amorim’s system.
Author Profile
Jude Obafemi, THEWILL
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
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