Manchester United and Manchester City played out a dull, uninspiring goalless draw in a lacklustre derby at Old Trafford on Sunday, as both sides failed to find a cutting edge in front of goal.
The result means City missed the chance to leapfrog Chelsea into fourth place following the Blues’ earlier 0-0 draw against Brentford. Newcastle now have the opportunity to draw level on points with Chelsea—and with a game in hand—if they beat Leicester on Monday.
City, United fail to impress in dull derby
Both sides, who have underwhelmed this season, failed to deliver a performance befitting the high-stakes nature of the derby. “There’s a real lack of quality,” former United captain Roy Keane lamented at half-time. “No atmosphere.”
City’s best chances came through Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush, but he was twice denied by United goalkeeper Andre Onana. On the other end, United had several half-chances but lacked the final touch, continuing a season-long struggle in the final third.
United’s attack lacks spark
United’s most threatening moment arrived 13 minutes from time when substitute Joshua Zirkzee forced a smart save from City goalkeeper Ederson after meeting Patrick Dorgu’s cross.
Earlier, Alejandro Garnacho had a good chance in the first half but failed to convert, while Manuel Ugarte’s effort in the second half drifted wide. Rasmus Hojlund endured another frustrating outing, registering just 15 touches before being substituted.
City’s Champions League hopes under threat
City remain in fifth place—likely enough for a Champions League spot—but their hold is tenuous with Newcastle two points behind and two games in hand.
