On this day in 2012, Robin van Persie scored that injury-time winner against Manchester City.
10 years ago today Van Persie etched his name into the United history books when his late winner all but confirmed the club’s 20th league title.
It was a Sunday match in Manchester, as the league holders City were hoping to continue their 37-match unbeaten run against United at the Etihad Stadium.
An early brace from Wayne Rooney had the Red Devils on cloud nine in the first half before late goals from Yaya Toure and Pablo Zabaleta levelled the tie in the 86th minute.
In the 91st minute, United were awarded a free kick and Van Persie stepped up to take it on his derby debut.
His curling effort took a deflection off of Samir Nasri in the wall and flew straight to the back of the net, winning the match and ending City’s unbeaten streak, as well as breaking several thousand hearts.
Van Persie’s time at United
The Dutchman was signed to score goals, and that’s exactly what he did. He was the Reds’ top goalscorer in all competitions, as well as the highest scorer in the league with 26.
He took the No.20 as that was his goal – to secure the 20th title. Again, he delivered.
Take a look at the memorable goal below:
OTD 12 – United are drawing 2-2 at City having tossed a two-goal lead and it’s well into Fergie-time when @Persie_Official steps up to take a free-kick. Surely he couldn't… pic.twitter.com/miDOi2pa2E
— United Rewind (@unitedrewind) December 9, 2022
Robin Van Persie scores the winner in injury time on his Manchester Derby debut (2012) #MUFC pic.twitter.com/Ls3Mp7YZmi
— 🇾🇪 (@ManUtdHeritage) March 5, 2022
