Manchester City made amends for their FA Cup final defeat to Manchester United with a dramatic 7-6 penalty shootout victory in the Community Shield at Wembley.
The match, which ended 1-1 after regulation time, saw City clinch their first Community Shield since 2019 in front of 78,416 fans.
The game looked set to slip away from Manchester City when substitute Alejandro Garnacho scored for Manchester United in the 81st minute. Garnacho’s goal came after a sweeping move, orchestrated by Bruno Fernandes, who found Garnacho to fire a low shot past Ederson. The Argentine’s strike seemed to have handed United the win, prompting a reaction from City’s Bernardo Silva, who earned a booking for his aggressive challenge on Garnacho.
City’s response came in the final minute of regulation. Norwegian youngster Oscar Bobb, who had been making positive runs down the left, delivered a precise cross into the box. Bernardo Silva, showing impressive timing and determination, rose above Facundo Pellistri to head the ball into the net, leveling the score and sending the match into the shootout.
Manchester City prevail in shootout drama
The shootout was a test of nerves and precision. Silva, who had missed the opening penalty for City, saw his effort saved by Andre Onana, giving United a slight edge. However, City’s goalkeeper Ederson came up with a crucial save, denying Jadon Sancho, and veteran defender Jonny Evans missed his spot-kick, which proved costly for United.
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Manuel Akanji stepped up to take the decisive penalty for City, calmly slotting the ball past Onana to secure a 7-6 victory in the shootout and avenge their FA Cup final loss to United.
MANCHESTER CITY WIN THE COMMUNITY SHIELD
Another one for the collection 🏆 pic.twitter.com/GDSnkNFvhb
— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 10, 2024
The result sparked celebrations among the City players and staff, while many United supporters left Wembley before the trophy presentation, disappointed by the outcome.
Manchester City’s Community Shield triumph not only provided a sweet redemption following their FA Cup final defeat but also highlighted their resilience and determination.
