Manchester United vs Manchester City: Know all about their rivalry
English football fans have witnessed a number of rivalries. However, the one head-to-head encounter which hogs the limelight is Manchester Derby, between two football giants Manchester United FC and Manchester City FC. Although United have dominated City for years, the rise of the latter, in recent years, has made the rivalry even more thrilling. Let us have a look at their rivalry to date.
November 12, 1881: The day it all began
It all began in 1881, when St. Mark's (West Gorton) and Newton Heath LYR played each other, as the latter won 3-0. The clubs later changed their names to City and United, respectively. While United had initial success over City, there was hardly any rivalry between the clubs, since both were still finding their feet, along with other English clubs.
The first real meeting happened during 1894-95 season
Their first Football League tie happened during the 1894-95 season, as United hammered City 5-2. Notably, February 1889 saw the clubs playing their first floodlit Manchester Derby, as United won 3-2. Another important head-to-head took place in December 1906, as City won 3-0 during a First Division encounter. Since 1970, the intensity of the rivalry increased and we often saw tempers flaring.
Five greatest matches of all time
Man United 0-1 Man City, April 1974: Denis Law's back-heel relegates United. Man City 2-3 Man United, November 1993: City 2-0 up, but United pull three back. Man United 2-1 Man City, February 2011: Rooney's bicycle-kick elevates United. Man United 1-6 Man City, October 2011: City earn their revenge. Man City 2-3 Man United, December 2012: Robin van Persie's injury-time free-kick shatters City's hopes.
Sergio Aguero, Wayne Rooney dominate Manchester Derby
Considering the players who have had the most impact in the derby, City's Sergio Aguero and United's Wayne Rooney lead the list with 11 goals. Apart from them, City's Joe Hayes and Lee too have scored 10 goals each. United legend, Sir Bobby Charlton, makes the list as well, having scored nine goals against the rivals. Tonight, Aguero has a chance to script history.
City dominate Manchester Derby in post-Ferguson era
The sides have clashed 11 times since legendary United manager Sir Alex Ferguson called curtains on his career after 2012-13 season. Of those 11 ties, City have managed to win six, while United could only pocket three wins. While City won the last meeting between the two 3-1 at Etihad Stadium, United's win came in 2018, when they won 3-2.
City have the potential to dominate
As far as the prediction goes for tonight's tie, it is highly likely that City are going to have an upper hand, as United look in no shape to overpower their dominance. Also, considering their future, City have been doing incredibly well under Pep Guardiola, and should he decide to continue, they have a bright future ahead and are sure to dominate United.
