By Daily Review Online
Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal as 10-man Manchester City secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.
City were reduced to 10 men in the 23rd minute when Phil Foden was sent off for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Enzo Maresca’s side remained organised and frustrated United for long periods.
Manchester United struggled to make their extra-man advantage count, with Marcus Rashford’s long-range free-kick that struck the post providing their closest opportunity of a cagey first half. Kobbie Mainoo also rattled the woodwork with a curling effort from the edge of the box.
City eventually broke the deadlock through Haaland. The Norwegian striker finished at the back post from Josko Gvardiol’s deflected cross, although the goal initially appeared to have been ruled out for offside.
A lengthy VAR review eventually overturned the decision, with the semi-automated offside technology showing that United defender Patrick Dorgu’s outstretched foot had played Haaland onside.
The decision sparked controversy, with former United captain Wayne Rooney and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville questioning whether Enzo Fernandez’s movement had interfered with the home side’s defence.
United pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way through City’s disciplined defence. City even came close to doubling their advantage, with Bryan Mbeumo and Haaland both missing opportunities.
United goalkeeper Senne Lammens also produced an important save to deny Fernandez, while Mbeumo headed another chance wide.
In stoppage time, Lammens saved again from Mbeumo as City successfully defended their narrow advantage to claim all three points.
The victory gives Manchester City a perfect start to the Premier League campaign and keeps them level with defending champions Arsenal at the top of the table.
For United, the defeat will raise questions about their failure to exploit a one-man advantage for more than an hour, while City and Maresca will take considerable credit for maintaining their composure after Foden’s dismissal.
The result also gives City the bragging rights in the latest Manchester derby, with Haaland’s controversial goal proving enough to settle a tense contest.