Manchester City delivered a dominant performance against Manchester United in the derby, securing a 3-0 victory fueled by goals from Erling Haaland and Phil Foden. The match, played at the Etihad Stadium on September 14, 2025, was made even more poignant as the city mourned the loss of boxing legend and lifelong City fan, Ricky Hatton.

The atmosphere was charged with emotion as both sets of fans united in a pre-match tribute to Hatton. Foden, a fellow Stockport native, expressed the team's determination to honor Hatton's memory with a victory. He said he had "extra motivation going into the game" and that the win was for Hatton and his family.

City started strong, with Haaland testing United's defense early on. Foden opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a header from a Jeremy Doku cross, marking his first start of the season in style. Doku brilliantly navigated through United's defense to deliver the assist.

Haaland then took center stage in the second half, scoring his first goal in the 53rd minute. Doku again played a key role, muscling past Lenny Yoro and setting up Haaland, who chipped the ball over United's goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir. Haaland completed his brace in the 68th minute, capitalizing on a Harry Maguire pass that was intercepted by Bernardo Silva, leaving Haaland to sprint clear and slot the ball past Bayindir. Haaland almost secured a hat-trick, but missed from close range.

City's victory was a resounding response to their recent Premier League defeats. The win propelled them up the table, while piling more pressure on United. For Pep Guardiola, this win marked his 600th match as a manager and his 10th Manchester derby victory.

While City's attack shone, their defense was also solid, with Gianluigi Donnarumma making his debut in goal and impressing with an early save. Haaland also contributed defensively, clearing crosses into the City area.

United's new signing, Senne Lammens, remained on the bench as Bayindir was given the nod in goal. United's attack struggled to create clear chances, with Benjamin Sesko's early shot being saved by Donnarumma.

The derby victory was particularly sweet for Foden, who has faced criticism recently. He dedicated his goal and the win to Ricky Hatton, highlighting the extra motivation the team felt to perform in his honor. Foden praised Haaland's all-around performance, noting his contributions in both attack and defense. Haaland echoed Foden's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the win and the extra motivation the team felt.