The Community Shield match between Liverpool and Manchester City began moments later. The pre-match rituals were done. The players were in position. Shirts tugged. Boots planted. Eyes forward.
Manchester City took the kickoff, tapping the ball back to their defensive line. From the first whistle, it was clear what they wanted to do. Control. They moved the ball with their signature rhythm, short purposeful passes across the backline and through Rodri, easing into their tempo like they were testing the water before diving in.
But Liverpool had other plans.
The front three, including Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, and Divock Origi, pounced into pressing mode the moment the ball moved laterally. Salah chased down Zinchenko on the left, forcing a quick release. Firmino cut off the passing angle into midfield, while Origi shadowed the center backs like a hunter.
