Match Report: Manchester United 2-1 Manchester City (Premier League)

Manchester City collapsed to successive losses, as two late Manchester United goals provided a huge dent on the Blues’ Premier League title hopes.

A hugely controversial moment in the 78th minute changed the course of the game, as Marcus Rashford was deemed to have not interfered with play in the build-up to Bruno Fernandes’ equaliser.

Jack Grealish initially gave City the lead, however two quick goals from the home side inflicted a second successive City loss and leaves their Premier League crown at significant risk.

Pep Guardiola, who was managing his 500th top-flight match, handed starts to Kyle Walker, Joao Cancelo and Phil Foden despite questions marks surrounding their recent performances.

Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake made up the Blues’ backline while Riyad Mahrez and Erling Haaland made up the front three.

City made a bright start to proceedings however it was United who came closest in the opening 10 minutes as Bruno Fernandes dragged his shot wide, capitalising on a misplaced pass by Bernardo Silva.

Haaland’s first sniff at goal came midway through the first half as his effort was blocked by Casemiro.

Ederson made amends for a chaotic misjudgment in the 34th minute with a superb save to deny Rashford, who looked set to give the home side the lead after breaking free down the far side.

As a cagey first 45 minutes at Old Trafford came to a close, Kyle Walker’s long range effort whistled past the post in what was the Blues’ best opportunity.

Half-Time: Manchester United 0-0 #ManCity. Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/HekMfUrvG8

— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) January 14, 2023

City made a much livelier start to the second half, playing significantly more freely and confidently, particularly in the final third.

Jack Grealish, who came on for Phil Foden, made another instant reaction from the bench, as the England international put City ahead with a header after a floating cross from Kevin De Bruyne.

The 27 year-old has now been directly involved in four goals in his last five City appearances.

In response to going behind, Erik ten Hag introduced Alejandro Garnacho, having brought on Anthony for Martial at half-time.

United controversially pulled themselves level in the 78th minute, as Bruno Fernandes equalised for the Reds.

Rashford, who was in an offside position, wasn’t deemed to have interfered with play by referee Stuart Attwell, who overturned his assistant referee and awarded the goal.

Minutes later, Rashford was involved again, as he put United 2-1 up at the front post.

A shell-shocked City were unable to get back into the game and collapsed to a second straight defeat.

Arsenal will have the opportunity to move eight points clear at the top of the table on Sunday, with City now just one point ahead of United in the Premier League table.