Manchester United failed to make their numerical advantage count as they suffered a 1-0 defeat to 10-man Manchester City in a dramatic Premier League derby at Old Trafford on Sunday.
City were reduced to 10 men in the 23rd minute after Phil Foden was shown a straight red card for kicking out at United captain Bruno Fernandes, leaving the visitors to play more than an hour with a man down.
Despite the advantage, United struggled to create clear-cut chances and were unable to break down City’s disciplined defence.
The decisive moment came in the 60th minute when Erling Haaland finished from Josko Gvardiol’s cross. The goal was initially ruled out for offside but was awarded following a VAR review, giving City a priceless lead.
United came close to equalising, with Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo both striking the woodwork, while City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma produced a series of important saves to preserve the visitors’ slender advantage.
City defended resolutely in the closing stages to secure all three points and continue their perfect start to the Premier League campaign despite their numerical disadvantage.
The defeat leaves Manchester United with just four points from their opening four league matches, increasing the pressure on Michael Carrick’s side after another frustrating afternoon at Old Trafford. City, meanwhile, moved level on 12 points with the league leaders, trailing only on goal difference.
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