Haaland crowned king of Manchester derby in City’s 10-man triumph

MANCHESTER - Erling Haaland became the king of the Manchester derby on 13 September 2026 after scoring the decisive goal to give Manchester City a 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford, despite playing most of the match with 10 men.

Both sides went into the derby chasing three points. United were buoyed by history and by key new faces, with Youri Tielemans making his first start in central midfield and Marcus Rashford returning to the starting XI following a loan spell at Barcelona. City arrived hoping to overturn United’s record of beating them in the 2025/2026 season.

The game turned in the 23rd minute when Phil Foden was sent off after a challenge on Bruno Fernandes. The referee showed no hesitation in brandishing a red card, leaving City a man down. United immediately targeted City’s exposed left flank, but could not find a breakthrough and the teams went into halftime goalless.

United pressed their numerical advantage after the break, but City’s defence held firm. The breakthrough came in the 60th minute when Joško Gvardiol’s cross found Haaland, who scored his 165th goal for Manchester City to put the visitors ahead.

United pushed for an equaliser, but City’s high defensive line and a series of crucial saves from goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma denied them. Haaland’s strike proved enough to seal the points.

The Norwegian was named Player of the Match. The result lifts Manchester City to second in the Premier League table. They host Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium on 20 September 2026.