Fifteen minutes had passed, and Manchester City had initially focused on stabilizing their rhythm and adapting to the match.
Pires on the right was just a decoy, using his individual skills to attract the opposition's attention while ensuring the ball could be quickly shifted over to the left.
Today, Ronaldinho would be matched against Simeone, each in their respective roles of offense and defense, and they were evenly matched. Once the first fifteen minutes were over, City began to build their attacks, but they were swiftly countered by Inter Milan.
Simeone intercepted Pires's attempt to pass to Ronaldinho. The pass was less than ideal, a risky one, and Pires audaciously attempted to reach it but couldn't get a touch.
