A dull Manchester derby noticed Manchester United and Manchester City battle to a goalless draw on Sunday, a outcome that dimmed City’s hopes of securing a Champions League spot subsequent season.
Pep Guardiola’s City stay in fifth place with 52 factors, one behind Chelsea, whereas United are languishing in thirteenth on 38 factors. Both groups, struggling via robust seasons, didn’t create clear-cut probabilities, significantly in a forgettable first half at Old Trafford, bathed in daylight.
The match did come to life after the break. City’s Omar Marmoush fired a thunderous shot from 25 yards, forcing United keeper Andre Onana into a shocking save. United’s greatest alternative got here halfway via the second half when Joshua Zirkzee’s half-volley was met with a pointy two-handed save from City keeper Ederson.
United managed their first clear sheet at Old Trafford since Dec. 1, after they thrashed Everton 4-0.
Despite the subdued ambiance, the sport was far much less eventful than their earlier encounter in December, when United surprised the champions 2-1 on the Etihad, courtesy of late objectives by Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo.
This time, there have been no late fireworks.
City squandered an early likelihood after the break when Marmoush despatched Phil Foden via on aim, however United’s Noussair Mazraoui made a vital deal with.
United gamers appealed for a penalty when Ruben Dias tripped and fell on the ball within the field, however each the referee and VAR disagreed.
Foden woes
The second half hinted at a number of potential objectives, however City’s assault fizzled. Foden, enduring a irritating season, didn’t make an affect and continued his 13-game aim drought, having scored simply 10 instances in 40 appearances this marketing campaign.
Despite his struggles, Guardiola got here to his protection. “When the team is not playing well, it looks like everyone is underperforming. But I see the passion and smile on Foden every day in training. He will come back,” mentioned Guardiola.
The day wasn’t with out controversy. After the match, Guardiola criticized United followers for chanting offensive slurs about Foden’s mom through the sport. “It’s a lack of class, but it’s not Manchester United, it’s the people,” Guardiola mentioned. “They should be ashamed.”
In protest, a bunch of United supporters staged a sit-in after the ultimate whistle, holding banners that learn: “RIP fan culture, 1878-2025” and “Glazers Out,” calling for the departure of the membership’s homeowners.
Source: www.dailysabah.com