Manchester City missed the chance to move up to third as they were held to a goalless draw by 10-man Manchester United in a disappointing derby at the Etihad Stadium.
The Citizens were on the front foot for much of the contest with Sergio Aguero hitting the post and going close on several occasions.
United had looked dangerous on the counter attack in the early stages through Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial, but were forced into a rearguard action throughout the second period as they extended their unbeaten run in the league to 24 games.
The contest struggled to live up to the hype but exploded into life late on as Marouane Fellaini was sent off for headbutting Aguero, before substitute Gabriel Jesus saw a header ruled out for offside on his return from injury.
The point ensures both sides can leapfrog top four rivals Liverpool should they win their respective games in hand. Fourth-placed City are one point adrift of Jurgen Klopp’s side, with United one point further back.
TALKING POINT
A frustrating night for City, but it was typical Mourinho. Given the balance of play, City will be disappointed they didn’t put some distance between themselves and United in the race for the top four. The Citizens will still be confident they can achieve their target of securing Champions League football next season, while United avoided the defeat that would have handed the advantage back to Liverpool.
Mourinho has his eyes firmly on winning the Europa League, but this was just the type of result the Portuguese masterminds away from home in the big matches. He has built a career on nullifying opponents, and while they didn’t get a winner on the counter attack, he’ll be delighted they have their destiny in their own hands with just five league matches to play.
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