It was a famous day that saw City prevail 2-1 for what was a first league win at United since April 1974.
Not only that, it was also a victory that saw new striker Benjani strike an iconic derby winner and so etch his name into City and derby folklore.
The Zimbabwean had arrived at City as a signing from Portsmouth on the very last day of winter transfer window of 2008, the deal only being confirmed in the small hours of the morning amidst much confusion.
Injury would mean that he would subsequently only go on to make 31 senior appearances for the Club.
Nonetheless, he made a remarkable and lasting impact with every Blue in his debut appearance – away at Old Trafford of all places.
Any meeting with Manchester United is, of course, extra significant.
But for Benjani his City bow came in a derby that also marked the 50th anniversary of the 1958 Munich Air Disaster.
Given the historic significance of the occasion, it saw both sides line up in specially produced retro kits with both United and City also given dispensation to remove sponsor logos for the day.
Whilst United were seeking to step up their pursuit of the Premier League crown, Sven Goran-Eriksson’s City meanwhile were targeting a first league double over the hosts since the 1969/70 season.
City proved more than equal to the task.
The Blues had already stunned the home fans by taking a first half lead thanks to Darius Vassell’s crafty finish.
Then, shortly before the break, came Benjani’s own moment to savour.
He rose to meet a Martin Petrov cross and neatly head home to beat Edwin van der Sar and so spark scenes of utter delight and delirium amongst the travelling Blues with Benjani unveiling his trademark goal celebration.
“I remember Micah Richards had made a lunge to connect with the ball and so Edwin van der Sar couldn’t commit himself because I think he wanted to punch it clear,” Benjani recalled.
“It was a great feeling and I ran off to celebrate in the corner in front of our fans.”
It was to prove a defining moment.
Though Michael Carrick halved the deficit with a late reply for United, Benjani’s sudden impact meant City secured the Manchester bragging rights, with the striker enjoying a moment to truly savour and remember.
“I was staying at the Hilton in Manchester with my wife and kids and decided to go for a celebration drink with one of my friends,” Benjani recalled.
“That’s when it really hit me because the club had assigned two bodyguards to go with me and make sure I was safe.
“Everyone at the bar was looking around wondering who it was and why they needed bodyguards!
“Any City fan I met wanted to buy me a drink, so it was a great day and one I will always remember.”
Be here as City begin defence of Carabao Cup crown
Don’t miss our Carabao Cup third round game with Norwich City as we look to defend the trophy we won in 2025/26.
Our clash with the Canaries takes place on Thursday 17 September at the Etihad Stadium with a 19:30 (UK) kick-off.
Tickets are on general sale and priced at £20 for adults and £5 for kids – with up to six tickets available to purchase per supporter.
The Blues are nine-time winners of the competition – behind only Liverpool – having emerged victorious in 1970, 1976, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2026.
Make sure you secure your spot at the Etihad Stadium as we look for more glory this season!
