Man City beat Sevilla on penalties to win the UEFA Super Cup

Manchester City have clinched their first UEFA Super Cup in their history, by triumphing over Sevilla in a penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw over 90 minutes.

Sevilla took the lead in the match's opening half, courtesy of a goal from Youssef En-Nesyri, but Manchester City managed to level the score when Cole Palmer found the back of the net, bringing parity to the game with a little over an hour played.

As the match didn't proceed to extra time, a penalty shootout was used to determine the winner. Both teams successfully converted their first nine penalty kicks until Nemanja Gudelj struck the bar with the tenth to give City the win.

Action: On a hot evening in Athens, both teams struggled to muster much energy and were happy to pass the ball around.

During the early stages of the match, Palmer had a couple of opportunities for City, and Yassine Bounou remained attentive to deflect a Jack Grealish shot to safety. 

Sevilla exhibited a more promising start in the initial minutes, yet their impact was not truly felt until play resumed after the first-half hydration break.

In the 25th minute, Marcos Acuna's precise cross from the left found En-Nesyri's head with impeccable accuracy, allowing him to nod the ball into the net and put the Europa League winners ahead. 

The Morocco international missed a fantastic chance to increase Sevilla's lead shortly after the second half started, but his shot lacked conviction and went straight into Ederson's legs.

Pep Guardiola's men managed to level after an hour of play, when Rodri's curling cross from the left seemed to be aimed at Erling Haaland, who had seen limited service, but it was Palmer arriving from behind who made the crucial connection, sending the ball into the net.

From that moment onwards, City took control of the game and created a couple of chances to take the lead.

Sevilla goalkeeper Yassine Bono thwarted attempts from Kyle Walker and Jack Grealish as City's pressure intensified and in stoppage time, Nathan Ake was left frustrated as his bouncing header was tipped over the crossbar.

With no further goals the match went to penalties, Erling Haaland converted his penalty during the shootout, along with his teammates Julian Alvarez, Mateo Kovacic, Jack Grealish, and Kyle Walker.

Sevilla managed to convert their first four penalties successfully, with Lucas Ocampos, Rafa Mir, Ivan Rakitic, and Gonzalo Montiel all finding the back of the net, but Nemanja Gudelj missed the vital spot kick at 5-4, allowing Pep Guardiola's team to clinch the UEFA Super Cup.

And your UEFA Super Cup winners... Manchester City! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/dy4I5Ttw1h

— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 16, 2023