Uncover the details of Amad Diallo’s outstanding display that propelled his team to a 2-1 triumph over City in a captivating Manchester Derby showdown.
Introduction:
It is Amad Diallo playing hero as Manchester United staged an incredible late comeback to leave the Etihad Stadium agog with a 2-1 victory over Manchester City. By so doing, Manchester City seemed all set to pull closer to Premier League leaders Liverpool before Josko Gvardiol’s first-half header seemed like it might be enough to settle a dull affair. However, Amad flipped the game on its head in the dying minutes as it earned a penalty converted by Bruno Fernandes before scoring an incredible winner in stoppage time.
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United Struggle in First Half
Manchester City started with their trademark possession play, but they failed to create meaningful opportunities in the opening stages. Phil Foden’s miscued volley after 21 minutes was the first shot in a historically subdued start to a Manchester derby.
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City eventually broke the deadlock in the 36th minute. A bright corner routine between Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan saw De Bruyne’s cross deflect off Amad into the way of Gvardiol’s header, which found its way into the top corner.
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Despite going ahead City’s performance was not full of fluidity and self-confidence, with their makeshift defense and midfield—key players like Rodri, Nathan Ake, and Manuel Akanji missing—unsuccessfully trying to take over.
United’s Second Half Revival
United looked much the brighter side of things after the break, with Amad and Fernandes both threatening Ederson’s goal. Amad’s glancing header forced a fine save, while Fernandes missed a gilt-edged chance after being set up by Rasmus Højlund.
City, however, were unable to capitalize on the momentum and suffered for their lack of cohesion. A back pass from Matheus Nunes fell short, and Amad pounced to win a penalty that Fernandes composed himself to score in the 88th minute and bring the scores level.
Amad Diallo’s Moment of Brilliance
The equalizer rattled City, and two minutes later, Amad delivered the decisive blow. A long ball from Lisandro Martinez caught City’s defense flat-footed, allowing Amad to show incredible skill. The 22-year-old controlled the ball expertly, rounded Ederson, and finished from a tight angle to send the visiting fans into raptures.
It was a fitting reward for Amad, who has flourished under Ruben Amorim’s leadership in an unfamiliar wing-back role.
Guardiola’s Frustration
This is the lowest point for Manchester City, who have lost six of their last seven Premier League games. The absence of Rodri and injuries to key defenders have exposed City’s vulnerability, especially in transition.
Guardiola’s team must regroup quickly as they face Aston Villa next weekend with their title hopes hanging by a thread.
Amorim’s Tactical Masterclass
For United, the win marked a growing resilience under Ruben Amorim. Even without Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, United recovered from early blows, including Mason Mount’s first-half injury and another goal conceded from a corner.
Amorim’s changes at halftime breathed new life into the team, with Amad, Fernandes, and Martinez all playing key roles in the turnaround.
What’s Next for United?
The win moves Manchester United to 12th in the table, ending a two-game losing streak. Amorim’s side will look to build on this momentum as they go into a crucial EFL Cup quarter-final against Tottenham Hotspur, and they eye their first piece of silverware this season.
Key Performances
Amad Diallo (Manchester United): Earned a penalty, scored the winner, and was a constant threat.
Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United): Kept his cool to convert the late penalty and drove United forward.
Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City): Scored City’s goal but could not stop the defensive collapse.
Matheus Nunes (Manchester City): His costly error led to United’s equalizer.