Manchester City emerged victorious over Manchester United in the 2024 Community Shield after a thrilling contest at Wembley Stadium, securing the trophy 7-6 on penalties.
The match served as the traditional curtain-raiser for the new season, with both sides opting to field familiar faces in their starting lineups, leaving new signings on the bench. However, 18-year-old Nico O’Reilly made his senior debut for City after impressing during pre-season.
City dominated the early stages, with youngster Oscar Bobb particularly influential.
Bobb orchestrated the first major chance of the match, setting up James McAtee, whose effort struck the post.
United struggled to find their rhythm but began to grow into the game around the half-hour mark, with Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, and Mason Mount combining well, though a crucial pass went astray, denying them a scoring opportunity.
The second half saw United believe they had taken the lead when Fernandes scored a stunning goal, only for it to be ruled out for offside.
City’s new signing, Savinho, entered the fray after the hour mark and nearly made an immediate impact, with a powerful shot blocked and a dangerous pass to Erling Haaland narrowly missing its mark.
As the clock ticked down, United’s Marcus Rashford missed a golden chance to put his side ahead, hitting the post from inside the area. United’s persistence finally paid off when Alejandro Garnacho scored with just minutes remaining.
However, City’s Bernardo Silva equalized shortly after, sending the game to penalties.
In the shootout, both teams were nearly flawless, but Jonny Evans’ missed effort for United proved costly. Manuel Akanji calmly converted the decisive spot kick, clinching the Community Shield for City.
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