Manchester City overcame Phil Foden’s first-half red card to beat Manchester United 1-0 in a fiery Premier League derby at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Erling Haaland delivered the decisive blow on the hour mark, finishing Josko Gvardiol’s cross to secure City’s fourth consecutive league victory under manager Enzo Maresca.
The Norwegian’s goal was initially ruled out for offside, but a lengthy Video Assistant Referee review overturned the decision. Replays showed United defender Patrick Dorgu had played Haaland onside.
Questions remained over whether City midfielder Enzo Fernández, who was standing in an offside position, had interfered with play.
The Premier League Match Centre determined that Fernández did not touch the ball or affect United’s ability to defend the move, allowing the goal to stand.
City’s victory was all the more impressive after Foden was dismissed in the 23rd minute following an altercation with United captain Bruno Fernandes.
The England international kicked out at Fernandes before catching him with a studs-up challenge.
Referee Michael Oliver showed Foden a straight red card, leaving City to play for more than an hour with 10 men.
United attempted to use their numerical advantage but repeatedly ran into City’s disciplined defensive wall.
Marcus Rashford came close to opening the scoring when his effort struck the woodwork, while midfielder Kobbie Mainoo also hit the frame of the goal as the hosts searched for an equaliser.
City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma produced an important late save to deny United and preserve his side’s narrow advantage.
Michael Carrick’s men increased the pressure during the closing stages, pouring players forward as City dropped deeper.
However, the visitors defended crosses, blocked shots and slowed the contest whenever they regained possession.
The final whistle sparked celebrations among the travelling City supporters after their team survived a testing afternoon with all three points.
Haaland’s goal was his ninth in Manchester derbies, underlining his influence in one of English football’s fiercest fixtures.
For United, the defeat will deepen concerns over a slow start to the campaign.
The Red Devils failed to break down opponents who played most of the contest with a man fewer and were left frustrated by the decision to allow Haaland’s winner.
Carrick expressed dissatisfaction with the VAR decision after the match, questioning the interpretation of Fernández’s position during the build-up.
The victory moved Manchester City to 12 points from four matches, level with Premier League leaders Arsenal but behind on goal difference.
United remained 13th with four points after registering only one league victory this season.
City’s resilience ultimately settled the derby as Haaland punished United’s failure to make their numerical superiority count.
