Manchester City delivered a dominant 3-0 win over Manchester United at the Etihad, strengthening their position at the top of the Women’s Super League and underlining their title credentials. Goals from Rebecca Knaak, Bunny Shaw, and Lauren Hemp capped a blistering first-half display that tore United apart.
For United, the defeat marked a second straight league loss for the first time since May 2024. Fatigue from their historic Champions League win over PSG appeared evident, and manager Marc Skinner admitted his squad needs reinforcements, saying United had “given City those goals” despite not being outplayed across the pitch.
City, with far fewer scheduling demands than their rivals, looked fresh and fluid from the opening whistle. Lauren Hemp, returning to the starting XI after injury, caused constant problems down United’s right. City’s quick, incisive attacking play and control in possession set the tone, with three goals in a decisive 21-minute spell before halftime.
United struggled to create meaningful chances and failed to register a single shot on target. Even with Melvine Malard introduced after the break, the visitors couldn’t change the momentum. Jess Park came closest when she struck the post, but City remained in complete control.
The victory adds to City’s impressive wins over Arsenal and United this season, placing Andrée Jeglertz’s side in a strong position after nine matches as they continue their push for the WSL title.
