Liverpool shaded the 1st half, as they played a high-intensity game, but after City levelled, they had 15 minutes where it seems they will go on and win the game
By Kehinde Okeowo
Premier League champions, Man City and FA Cup winner, Liverpool renewed hostility as they jostled for the Community Shield at the King Power Stadium on Saturday evening.
The first half belonged to Liverpool who played a high-intensity match and tried to take the game to City, questioning their ability to cope.
It was, therefore, not a surprise when they took the lead in the 21st minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold scored from a pass from Mohamed Salah.
Julian Alvarez restored parity in the 70th minute for the Citizens to make it 1-1, when he reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box.
After City levelled, they had 15 minutes where it seemed they will go on and win the game, but it was Liverpool who scored again.
Mohamed Salah put away a penalty
in the 83rd minute, when the referee pointed to the spot after adjudging Ruben Diaz handled the ball in the box.
One of the new Liverpool recruits, Darwin Nunez, then made it 3-1 four minutes into extra time when he headed the ball into the net after an assist from Andrew Robertson.
ALSO READ: Arsenal thrash Sevilla 6-0 to lift Emirate Cup
The third goal from Liverpool broke the spirit shown by City in the second half, and the Reds held on to win, lifting the first trophy of the season.
After the match, the scorer of the first goal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, spoke to ITV Sport and said:
“This one means a lot as it’s the third time we’ve been in it. Our season started today and it was important for us to get off on the right foot.”
Asked how the substitute appearance by Darwin Nunez impacted the game, he said it defined the outcome because he won a penalty and got the final goal.
“It has got to be up there. He won the penalty, scored a goal and looked very lively. He’s been bought in to score goals and he’s proved he can do that today.
“He’s a top player, a young player who is willing to learn. He’s bonded well with the lads. He came on with a point to prove.
“Who knows what will happen over the course of the season? Our aim is to be as fit as possible to push them from the very first kick. This was the perfect start and we hope to win trophies along the way.” he added.