Van Gaal side, with Mata in the line-up, took control of the derby but came up against Hart and City defense. The Asturian player was part of a few opportunities. Both temas could not break the deadlock.
The Match of the Day in England finished with a goaless draw, the result could have been better for United that dominated the game against a defensive City. Juan Mata, who missed the midweek Champions game against CSKA, returned to the starting XI. The Spanish midfielder played on the right, alongside Herrera and Martial, behind Rooney.
It was a tight game in which City did not leave many spaces, as a result Juan could not create any danger in the first half. After the break, Mata was moré incisive, assisted Herrera whose shot was deflected by a defender. Minutes later, Juan took a corner kick that Smalling nearly headed in. Moments before being substitute Juan was close to have a one on one with Hart but the keeper was quicker and cleared the ball away. Mata left the pitch on the 67 minute replaced by Lingard.
Lingard, who hit the the crossbar with a great shot, and Smalling, that was denied after a fine save from Hart, had the last chances of the game. The draw leaves ManU two points behind Arsenal and City. The next game for the Red Devils will be on Wednesday against Middlesbrough in the Capital One Cup.
