Manchester City Survives Sevilla FC Scare

Manchester City withstood a stern test from Europa League winners Sevilla FC to lift the UEFA Super Cup on penalties in Piraeus.

After a 1-1 draw, City prevailed 5-4 on spot kicks to become the sixth English team to claim the trophy. But Jose Luis Mendilibar’s determined Sevilla side made Pep Guardiola’s men sweat.

Despite controlling possession, Man City fell behind Youssef En-Nesyri’s powerful first-half goal for the Spaniards. Sevilla also wasted two glorious chances to extend their lead after the break.

But academy star Cole Palmer equalized with a looping header on 63 minutes to swing momentum back in Man City’s favor. The reigning Premier League champions dominated late but couldn’t find a winner.

Extra time failed to differentiate the teams. It was during the penalty shootout when Nemanja Gudelj, aiming for glory, unfortunately, hit the crossbar instead of finding the net.

The win provided Guardiola joy on his return to Greece, where he enjoyed Champions League glory as a player with Barcelona. But an injury to midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne prior to the game tempered celebrations.

De Bruyne is now expected to miss months of action, a huge early blow to City’s season. Subsequently, Guardiola will hope others can step up creatively in the Belgian’s absence.

Notably, rising superstar Erling Haaland was well shackled by Sevilla’s defenders and had few chances to open for City. But the Norwegian’s mere presence occupies defenders, bringing others into play.

Capitalizing perfectly on the oversight, Palmer seamlessly evaded attention to score the crucial equalizer for City. Meanwhile, the England under-21 international continues to shine when given opportunities.

In the end, City’s ruthlessness from the penalty spot sealed the trophy. Nevertheless, Sevilla FC made them work hard for that early silverware. Overall, this win builds confidence for Manchester City in the Premier League season.