After scoring a brilliant first goal, the Red Devils’ forward wasted a chance and lost possession of the ball, which allowed City to easily defeat United.

With a single swing of his right boot, Marcus Rashford silenced his doubters and went on to prove them wrong for the remainder of the match as Manchester City overcame his early goal to win the derby 3-1 on Sunday.

With a blistering first goal that silenced both the Etihad Stadium and his many skeptics—whom he turned on last week in a piece in the Player’s Tribune—Rashford shocked everyone. However, neither Rashford nor United was able to capitalize on the momentum, as the latter blew two excellent opportunities to extend their lead.

United’s intensely defensive play saw them through to halftime, but once Phil Foden equalized, City’s win seemed inescapable. Rashford, who awkwardly attempted to draw a foul against Kyle Walker but was instead taken out, was also heavily responsible for that goal, and Foden showed no regrets.

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Even though City was still in control of the game, they had confidence this time, and United’s initial resolve wavered as Foden scored once again before Erling Haaland secured the victory. Although, as they say, it’s the hope that kills you, United never really expected to win this match. As a result, they will be extremely frustrated that they were unable to build on their impressive start.

The players of United from the Etihad Stadium are rated by GOAL…

Victor Lindelof (2023–24) Manchester UnitedGetty Photographs

Andre Onana, custodian and defence (8/10):

Put Rashford’s goal in play with a pinpoint ball forward, and he was a master at stopping shots, stopping Rodri, Foden, and Doku. He was powerless to save Foden’s first goal, but he had a better chance at stopping his second.

Diogo Dalot (5 out of 10):

usually forced to defend as a result of United’s strategies. performed rather well, although there were also a few careless passes. changed to a left-back for the last twenty minutes.

Jonny Evans (4/10):

Despite a few strong blocks, he was unable to keep up with City when they went into their routine. the initial one to be launched.

Rafael Varane (score of ten):

stood up and repeatedly obstructed passes and shoots. took a booking after Haaland had gotten away from Evans by fouling him.

Lindelof, Victor (5/10):

found it difficult to handle Foden and spent the last twenty minutes inside.

UPCOMING MATCH: Manchester United vs. Premier League

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EVERTON Scott McTominay Manchester United 2023–24 Preview: Everton against.Getty Photographs

Kathy Mainoo, midfield (6/10):

effectively cut down City’s passing lanes and recycled the ball to relieve some of the pressure.

Casemiro (5 out of 10):

crucially restrained himself and assisted in containing City to prevent a booking

McTominay, Scott (5/10):

pulled off a tackle in the first half that gave City a golden opportunity. lacks the necessary attributes to matter in a match this big.

Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho 2023–24Getty Photographs

Alejandro Garnacho’s attack (5/10):

A significant letdown. Couldn’t really pose a threat.

Marcus Rashford (grade: 5):

scored a rocket, just to revert to the unsatisfactory version of himself that he had been lately. blew two excellent scoring opportunities and, more importantly, dropped the ball before City equalised.

Bruno Fernandes: 6 out of 10

performed admirably as the false nine, and Rashford was set up by his superb hold-up play. worked assiduously and bravely in defence.

Erik ten Hag, 2023–24 Manchester UnitedGetty Photographs

Subs & William Kambwala, Manager (5/10):

Dealing with De Bruyne in the strange position of right-back was a difficult challenge. All in all, he performed fairly well.

Antony (4/10):

Very ineffective. widely made fun of by City supporters.

Amrabat, Sofyan (N/A):

brought on in the 82nd minute and mishandled the ball as Haaland’s goal was being built up.

Omari Forson (not available):

Inaugurated in the 82nd minute.

Erik ten Hag (grade: 5):

He was counting on City to be careless and not take any chances. He didn’t have an answer once they managed to get through.