Manchester City narrowly avoided setting an unwanted record in the Community Shield after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Manchester United.
The match ended 1-1 in regular time, but City triumphed 7-6 on penalties, sparing themselves from a fourth consecutive Community Shield defeat.
The game was closely contested, with both sides creating several chances throughout. United took the lead in the 82nd minute through Alejandro Garnacho, who found the back of the net with a nicely-finished shot past Ederson.
City, however, refused to give up, and Bernardo Silva equalized in the 89th minute with a header at the back post, sending the match into a tense penalty shootout.
In the shootout, both teams were almost perfect, but City came out on top with Pep Guardiola’s side avenging their FA Cup final defeat to United just 11 weeks ago.
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City’s near-miss with Community Shield record
Had United won, City would have set an unwanted record of four consecutive Community Shield losses. The victory not only secures City’s first piece of silverware for the season but also sets a positive tone ahead of their Premier League opener against Chelsea.
For United, the defeat on penalties is a bitter pill to swallow, especially after a strong performance in regular time. Erik ten Hag’s side will look to bounce back when they host Fulham in their Premier League opener at Old Trafford next weekend.
Despite the result, the match provided both teams with valuable minutes ahead of the new season, with several key players getting a chance to impress. As the Premier League season kicks off, both Manchester clubs will be looking to build on this early test at Wembley.
