Manchester United triumphs in derby

Manchester City vs Manchester United Overview

Manchester City

2 - 4

Match Finished

Manchester United

Manchester

Etihad Stadium

L. Benn

Manchester City vs Manchester United Weather

The match was played under overcast skies with temperatures hovering around 7°C, creating a cool and comfortable environment for players and fans. Wind speeds were moderate at 5 m/s, coming from the west, while the atmospheric pressure stood at 1021 hPa. Humidity levels were at 87%, contributing to a moist atmosphere that might have slightly impacted ball movement. The weather, while typical of a winter evening in Manchester, played a neutral role in the game, offering no significant challenges or advantages to either side.

Manchester City vs Manchester United Head-to-Head

The rivalry between Manchester City and Manchester United in women's football continues to grow in intensity, with this match adding another memorable chapter. Historically, City has often dominated possession in these encounters, as they did with 74% this time, but United's efficiency in front of goal has been a decisive factor recently.

This derby marked United's second consecutive league win over City, highlighting a shift in balance. Ella Toone’s stellar performance underscored United’s attacking prowess, while City's inability to convert their superior ball control into goals remained a recurring issue. The head-to-head narrative between these teams is evolving, making each contest highly anticipated.

Manchester City vs Manchester United Predictions

Pre-match predictions leaned towards a closely contested game, and this derby did not disappoint. Analysts anticipated a slight edge for Manchester City due to their home advantage and possession-heavy style of play. However, Manchester United's clinical attack defied expectations, exploiting defensive lapses in City's setup.

Ella Toone’s hat-trick and Manchester United's ability to capitalize on limited chances proved pivotal. The prediction of a high-intensity, goal-filled encounter was accurate, although the extent of United's dominance in scoring may have surprised some. This game reaffirmed the unpredictability and excitement of the FA WSL.

Manchester City vs Manchester United Top Player

Ella Toone of Manchester United celebrates after scoring their side's fourth goal to complete their hat-trick during the Barclays Women's Super League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on January 19, 2025 in Manchester, England.

Getty

Ella Toone was undoubtedly the top player of the match, earning a remarkable 9.3 rating. Her hat-trick was the cornerstone of Manchester United's 4-2 victory. Toone’s ability to find space and deliver decisive finishes highlighted her exceptional skill and composure.

Her contributions went beyond scoring, as her movement and link-up play disrupted Manchester City's defensive organization. Assisted twice by Elisabeth Terland, Toone showcased the chemistry and coordination within United's attacking line. This standout performance further solidified her reputation as one of the FA WSL's brightest talents.

Manchester City vs Manchester United Match Highlights

• 14'

  

  E. Toonescored a goal

• 21'

  

  L. Galtonscored a goal

• 36'

  

  E. Toonescored a goal

• 40'

  

  V. Miedemascored a goal

• 45'

  

  R. Knaakscored a goal

• 46'

  

  E. Toonescored a goal

• 51'

  

  Gabrielle Georgereceived a Yellow Card

• 65'

  

  G. Georgewas substituted by A. Sandberg

• 65'

  

  E. Terlandwas substituted by M. Malard

• 77'

  

  V. Miedemawas substituted by L. Blindkilde Brown

• 77'

  

  E. Toonewas substituted by G. Clinton

• 81'

  

  Grace Clintonreceived a Yellow Card

• 85'

  

  J. Parkwas substituted by L. Murphy

• 85'

  

  C. Bizet Ildhusøywas substituted by R. Williams

This match featured several key moments that defined its high-stakes nature:

• Early Dominance by Manchester United: Ella Toone opened the scoring in the 14th minute, followed shortly by Leah Galton's goal in the 21st minute. Both goals showcased United's sharpness in attack and Elisabeth Terland's role as a creative force with two assists.
• Ella Toone’s Hat-Trick: Toone completed her hat-trick with goals in the 36th and 46th minutes, the latter immediately after the second half began. Her clinical finishing was the turning point of the game.
• Manchester City's Resilience: City responded with two first-half goals, one from Vivianne Miedema (40th minute) and another from Rebecca Knaak (45+3). Both goals came with assists from Mary Fowler, who was instrumental in City's counterattacks.
• Defensive Struggles and Tactical Adjustments: The match saw frequent substitutions in the second half, with both teams trying to alter the flow. Despite City's 74% possession and 23 shots, they struggled to breach United's disciplined defense.
• Key Saves and Defensive Efforts: Phallon Tullis-Joyce, United’s goalkeeper, made six crucial saves to deny City, reinforcing United's victory.

This match delivered non-stop action and drama, cementing it as one of the season's most thrilling fixtures.

Manchester City vs Manchester United Statistics

The match statistics highlighted the contrasting styles of the two teams:

• Possession: Manchester City dominated possession with 74%, but they failed to translate this control into goals.
• Shots: City attempted 23 shots with 8 on target, while United, more clinical, had 11 shots with 5 on target.
• Passing: City completed 672 passes with an impressive 88% accuracy, showcasing their methodical approach, compared to United's 238 passes and 67% accuracy.
• Key Defensive Metrics: Despite City’s dominance in possession, United’s defense, led by crucial blocks and saves, held firm. United's goalkeeper, Phallon Tullis-Joyce, contributed 6 saves.
• Set Pieces and Discipline: City earned 8 corner kicks and committed just 1 foul, while United had 2 corners and committed 10 fouls, receiving 2 yellow cards in the process.

These statistics reflect a classic case of possession not guaranteeing success, with United's counter-attacking strategy proving more effective.

Manchester City Player Ratings

The key player ratings for Manchester City are as follows:

• Vivianne Miedema (7.9): Scored a crucial goal and remained a constant threat in attack.
• Rebecca Knaak (7.7): Scored one goal and contributed significantly in defense with high passing accuracy (97%).
• Mary Fowler (7.6): Provided two assists, showcasing her playmaking abilities.
• Jill Roord (7.2): Played a solid midfield role with key passes and duels won.
• Aoba Fujino (7.0): Active in duels and contributed to City’s attacking moves.

Other players like Khiara Keating (5.2) and Leila Ouahabi (5.3) received lower ratings, reflecting their struggles in the match. City's key performers were unable to overturn United's dominance despite individual contributions.

Manchester United Player Ratings

The key player ratings for Manchester United are as follows:

• Ella Toone (9.3): A hat-trick hero who led United’s attack with clinical finishing and smart positioning.
• Phallon Tullis-Joyce (7.5): Made six crucial saves to keep United in the game during critical moments.
• Millie Turner (7.5): Strong defensive presence with important blocks and interceptions.
• Jayde Riviere (7.3): Contributed effectively in defense with solid duels won and successful dribbles.
• Celin Bizet (7.5): A strong midfield performance with impressive tackles and duels won.

The ratings highlight United's effective teamwork and Ella Toone’s exceptional individual display. Defensive contributions from players like Tullis-Joyce and Turner ensured that City’s high possession did not translate into more goals.