City win first Super Cup title

ATHENS, August 17

Manchester City held their nerve to beat Sevilla 5-4 on penalties and win the UEFA Super Cup for the first time in their history after an enthralling game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes.

The first nine spot-kicks of the shootout were all converted but Serbian defender Nemanja Gudelj struck his penalty against the crossbar to hand victory to City, who lost on penalties to Arsenal in England’s Community Shield 10 days ago.

Youssef En-Nesyri had given Europa League winners Sevilla the lead with a towering header in the 25th minute but City equalised through a header from 21-year-old Cole Palmer in the 63rd minute.

It was an exciting match played in scorching heat and humidity at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium as an obstinate Sevilla caused many problems for a City defence which was often exposed. Sevilla made last season’s Champions League winners uncomfortable with aggressive high pressing.

“It was always going to be a tough game. We have to be more clinical but we got the job done,” City captain Walker said. “If anyone played with me they know I don’t like taking penalties because I don’t like letting people down if I miss. Pep put me in at five. (I wanted to) show leadership. Luckily it went in,” he added. — Reuters