Manchester City Triumphs Over United in Penalty Shootout for Community Shield Win

Manchester City overcame Manchester United in the Community Shield by prevailing 7-6 in a penalty shootout on Saturday, after the match ended 1-1 at Wembley. The contest saw late drama with Alejandro Garnacho putting United ahead in the final 10 minutes before Bernardo Silva equalized for City in the 89th minute.

The intense shootout saw misses from United’s Jadon Sancho and Jonny Evans, allowing City to clinch the victory. This win marked a change of fortune for City in the season opener, having lost the previous three years to Leicester, Liverpool, and Arsenal, despite winning the Premier League for four consecutive seasons.

City’s lineup was notably impacted by the absence of key players who were still on break following their participation in Euro 2024 and the Copa America. Notable absentees included England’s Kyle Walker, John Stones, Phil Foden, and Spain’s Rodri, all of whom had reached the Euro 2024 final.

Conversely, United’s manager Erik ten Hag, eager for more trophies, played Kobbie Mainoo fresh from his impressive performances for England in Germany. Despite benching Kevin De Bruyne and Silva, City initially dominated with Jeremy Doku creating significant problems down the left.

James McAtee, back from a loan at Sheffield United, nearly scored with a curling shot that hit the post in the first half. On the other hand, United, despite having less possession, created several good opportunities. Amad Diallo missed a clear chance by opting to pass instead of shooting, and a stunning strike from captain Bruno Fernandes was disallowed for offside.

Garnacho added energy to United’s attack after coming on, setting up Marcus Rashford, who hit the post. Garnacho then scored what seemed like a winner, only for City to equalize through Silva’s header from Oscar Bobb’s cross in the dying minutes of the game.

In the shootout, Silva’s penalty was saved by Andre Onana, but Sancho, haunted by previous penalty misses for England, also failed to convert. City goalkeeper Ederson saved Sancho’s attempt and scored one himself. The shootout culminated with Manuel Akanji, redeeming himself from a previous penalty miss in the Euros, scoring the decisive penalty to secure victory for City.