WATCH: Manuel Akanji puts Euro 2024 penalty miss behind him as he tucks away spot-kick confidently to help Manchester City win Community Shield 

Manchester City were crowned winners of the Community Shield after a nerve-wracking clash against rivals Manchester United on Saturday, August 10. United took the lead in the second half through Alejandro Garnacho, but Manchester City equalized late with a goal from Bernardo Silva. The game then went to a penalty shootout, which City won 7-6, with Manuel Akanji scoring the decisive penalty.

City showed positive signs early in the game, with Jeremy Doku and Oscar Bobb frequently involved and causing problems for United. However, Erik ten Hag’s side, bolstered by their substitutes, began to find opportunities on the counter-attack against a City defense that appeared vulnerable.

United were eventually rewarded for their efforts when Garnacho scored a stunning goal in the 82nd minute, seemingly securing the win.

However, it was Guardiola’s turn to rely on a substitute, as Silva scored the equalizer with a minute remaining in regulation time. Oscar Bobb, who had an impressive pre-season, provided the assist after wriggling past several challenges and delivering a cross with his weaker foot that Silva converted.

The game went to a penalty shootout, where Silva missed the opening penalty. Ultimately, Manchester City had the last laugh as former blue Jadon Sancho missed his spot-kick, followed by Jonny Evans missing his crucial one in the sudden death situation.

Akanji, who missed the decisive kick for Switzerland against England in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, redeemed himself by powerfully striking his effort into the middle of the net to secure the victory.

Watch Manuel Akanji’s winning penalty for Manchester City below.

With this victory, Guardiola has now won 18 titles with Manchester City in his ninth year at the club. His achievements include six Premier League titles, four Carabao Cups, two FA Cups, and the Community Shield for the third time.

What next for Manchester City and Manchester United?

The focus will now quickly shift to the Premier League, with both Manchester sides expected to be front-runners in the table. Manchester City will begin their league campaign with an away trip to Chelsea, followed by a home game against Ipswich Town. They will close out August with a match against West Ham United at the London Stadium.

Manchester United, on the other hand, will start their Premier League season at Old Trafford against Fulham, before traveling to the south coast to face Brighton & Hove Albion. They will play Liverpool as their third opponent of the season, with the clash scheduled for September 1 before the international break.

Both clubs fielded several young players in the Community Shield clash, but it is anticipated that senior players will return to the squad for the start of the Premier League.