By Wembley Stadium, London – Manchester City claimed victory in a thrilling Community Shield match against Manchester United, triumphing 7-6 on penalties after the game ended level.
This win allowed Pep Guardiola’s side to avenge their FA Cup final defeat to United, securing their first Community Shield victory since 2019 in front of a crowd of 78,416.
Bernardo Silva was the hero in regular time, leveling the score for City in the final minute. However, City’s fortunes looked grim when Andre Onana saved their first penalty kick, giving United the advantage.
But the tide turned as City’s goalkeeper Ederson denied Jadon Sancho’s effort, and veteran defender Jonny Evans missed, setting the stage for Manuel Akanji to seal the victory.
Earlier, it seemed United might have the edge when Alejandro Garnacho, collecting possession from a Bruno Fernandes pass, fired a low shot into the bottom corner with nine minutes left. Garnacho thought he had secured the win for United, but his goal was ruled out due to a foul on a City player earlier in the play.
Silva, who had been booked earlier for a foul on Garnacho, redeemed himself by making a crucial contribution in the closing stages. As young Norwegian Oscar Bobb spun and sent a cross to the far post, Silva rose above United’s Facundo Pellistri and headed the ball into the net to equalize.
The game then moved to penalties, a tense climax that saw both teams push their limits. United’s chances were hindered by missed opportunities, with Evans hitting the post, while City’s players showed resilience under pressure.
United had earlier opportunities to take control of the match, with James McAtee striking the post in the first half and Marcus Rashford doing the same in the second. Despite these chances, United couldn’t find the back of the net during regular play, with City’s defense, marshaled by Ederson, standing firm.
City’s win sparked scenes of jubilation among their fans and players, a stark contrast to the disappointment felt by United supporters, many of whom left Wembley before the trophy presentation.
For City, this victory also marked a continuation of their success from the previous season, where they completed a historic treble. Guardiola’s side, despite missing some key players, showed why they remain at the pinnacle of English football.
