Manchester United Edge City in Derby
The Red Devils rebound from a weekend loss to Chelsea with Juan Mata leading the way in the Manchester Derby. The Spanish international scored the lone goal of the match as United win the second draw between the two sides.
It was a tight Manchester Derby and now Manchester City is knocked out.
Soccer News: Juan Mata led Manchester United over cross-town rival Manchester City in the fourth round of the EFL Cup on Wednesday night in a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils turn the tide after a 4-0 loss to Chelsea over the weekend, while Man City remain without a win in their last six matches.
Manchester City’s esteemed coach, Pep Guardiola made a total of nine changes from the weekend roster. The club’s recent skid is his worst run since he took over.
Although the traveling club maintained a slight advantage in possession, 52% to 48%, Manchester United had a slight leverage in scoring opportunities with 8 shots (2 on goal) to City’s 5 (0 on goal).
The first half of the match saw a lackluster performance by both sides as numerous changes from the weekend were present for both clubs. Heading into half time neither team recorded a shot on target, setting up a second half of questionable play.
The Red Devils came out swinging with Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba connecting in the 49th minute. Ibrahimovic dribbled the ball across the field and played the Frenchman into the box alone from the left flank only to have his shot saved by goalkeeper Willy Caballero. Pogba’s shot was deflected wide and struck the post.
Five minutes later, Ibrahimovic shielded a ball down the left side of the field and put in a low cross to Ander Herrera who set up a lone Mata to give the Red Devils the lead. Hererra shielded the ball from Fernando as both players fell to the ground with Mata pouncing on the ball from the penalty spot.
Late in the match Sergio Aguero and Raheem Sterling came on the pitch to try and pull one back for City, but the Red Devils maintained momentum and snubbed any opportunities thrown their way.
Youth players can learn from watching this high level match and then discussing it with their teammates.
Manchester Untied prepare to host Burnley this Saturday, while City travel to take on West Brom. Both matches are set for 10:00 a.m. ET.
