Few fixtures in football get the blood pumping quite like the Manchester Derby. It’s more than just a game – it’s a battle for pride, bragging rights, and, in some cases, the title. Over the years, United and City have served up some unforgettable clashes, but nothing beats the ones where the red side of Manchester comes out on top.
And if you’ve ever placed a sport betting Zambia wager on one of these clashes, you know how unpredictable they can be. One moment, United’s in control; the next, City’s pulling off an insane comeback. But today, we’re not here for heartbreak. With another Derby coming, let’s relive some of the most glorious United wins in Manchester Derby history.
Manchester United 5-0 Manchester City (1994)
Let’s start with one of the most dominant derby performances ever. Back in November 1994, when City were still struggling to establish themselves as a top club, United absolutely demolished them at Old Trafford.
Andrei Kanchelskis stole the show, bagging a hat-trick, while Eric Cantona and Mark Hughes added to the humiliation. Five goals, no reply. A perfect day for United fans, and a nightmare for City. It was the kind of derby where you wished the final whistle never came – unless you were on the blue side, of course.
Manchester City 1-4 Manchester United (1993)
Before City became the superpower they are today, derby day often felt like just another opportunity for United to flex their muscles. This game in November 1993 was no different.
City actually took the lead early on, but then came the Cantona Show. The Frenchman produced a masterclass, scoring twice to turn the game around. Then, Roy Keane (of all people) popped up with a late goal to make it 4-1. It was a ruthless performance and a stark reminder of just how far apart the two clubs were at the time.
Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United (2012) – Robin van Persie’s Last-Minute Magic
Fast forward to a different era – one where City were now a dominant force. It was December 2012, and United were looking to reclaim their Premier League crown. The stakes couldn’t have been higher.
Wayne Rooney put United 2-0 up, but City clawed their way back to 2-2. Just when it looked like the game was heading for a draw, Robin van Persie stepped up in the 92nd minute and curled in a stunning free kick. Absolute pandemonium. Sir Alex Ferguson went wild on the touchline, and United fans celebrated like they’d won the league. (Which they actually did that season.)
Manchester City 2-3 Manchester United (2018) – The Comeback at the Etihad
City were this close to celebrating a title win in front of United. All they needed was a win at the Etihad in April 2018. And when they raced to a 2-0 lead at halftime, it looked like a nightmare was unfolding for the Reds.
But United had other plans. Paul Pogba, who’d been criticized all season, turned into prime Zidane and scored twice in quick succession. Then Chris Smalling, yes, Chris Smalling, smashed in the winner. City fans had their title party put on hold, and United fans had an all-time classic comeback to savor.
Manchester United 2-1 Manchester City (2023) – The Bruno & Rashford Masterclass
One of the most satisfying recent derby wins. City arrived at Old Trafford in January 2023 full of confidence, but United had their own resurgence under Erik ten Hag.
Jack Grealish put City ahead, but then came the drama. Bruno Fernandes scored a controversial equalizer that had City fans fuming, and just minutes later, Marcus Rashford buried the winner. The atmosphere was electric, and it felt like a statement win – United proving they could still go toe-to-toe with Guardiola’s machine.
What’s Your Favorite Manchester Derby Memory?
There’s nothing quite like seeing United beat City, whether it’s a dominant thrashing or a last-minute stunner. What’s your favorite Manchester Derby win? Let’s hear it in the comments!
