Manchester City delivered a dominant performance today at the Etihad Stadium, beating Manchester United 3-0 in the Premier League. It was a derby filled with sharp attacking play, clinical finishing, and an early goal that set the tone for City’s control of the match.The opening goal came in the 18th minute when Phil Foden rose to meet a cross from Jérémy Doku, heading the ball into the net.
Foden, English and 25 years old, showed precision and composure in the air. The assist came from Doku, a Belgian winger aged 23, who had glided past defenders to deliver the dangerous ball into the box. After the break, Erling Haaland added a second for City in the 53′ , capitalising on another move initiated by Doku. The finish was clinical—Haaland, Norwegian and 25 years old, showed why he is one of the most feared forwards in the Premier League.
City sealed the result in the 68th minute with Haaland again finding the net, this time assisted by Bernardo Silva(Captain). Silva, Portuguese and 31 years old, provided the decisive pass that allowed Haaland to sprint through and finish one-on-one. Each of the goals showcased a different strength: Foden’s aerial threat, Haaland’s instinctive finishing and timing, and Bernardo Silva’s vision to unlock the defence.
Manchester United had moments of pressure and some near-chances, but nothing that threatened City’s clean sheet. The new City goalkeeper also impressed in making key saves to preserve the shutout. In terms of the wider picture, the victory reinforced Manchester City’s dominance in derby matches, and Haaland’s brace continued his fine streak in front of goal. City looked balanced, committed in pressing, and sharp in transition. United, by contrast, lacked cutting edge in attack and were often second best in midfield.
Manchester United’s recent battles against Manchester City have painted a vivid picture of frustration, imbalance between the two historic rivals. What was once a derby defined by unpredictable drama and fierce competition has, in recent years, tilted heavily in City’s favor, exposing United’s struggles both on and off the pitch.For United, the problem has not been effort but rather identity. Despite boasting talented individuals, their team often looks disjointed when facing Pep Guardiola’s well-drilled City machine. A glaring struggle has been consistency. United might hold firm for a half, defending bravely and countering with intent, but one lapse—an unmarked runner, a misplaced pass—often opens the floodgates.
Against City, these mistakes are ruthlessly punished. Erling Haaland’s clinical finishing and Kevin De Bruyne’s vision highlight just how far United’s squad needs to grow in cohesion and composure.Yet, despite these struggles, there remains a flicker of hope. United’s fan base is unwavering, demanding the kind of passion and fight that once made at Old Trafford. For United, the struggle against City is more than just about football; it is about reclaiming pride, rebuilding belief, and proving that the Red half of Manchester still has a voice in this ever football battle.