As the game approached the final thirty minutes, City launched a sharp counterattack, but it was Pagliuca's brilliant performance that stole the show.
Aside from thwarting Ronaldinho's one-on-one attempt earlier, he had also saved two world-class efforts from Pirlo, both of which looked almost certain to result in goals. He had even managed to deflect a close-range header from Ronaldo inside the box.
Both Zambrotta and Ashley Cole had been deployed as wing-backs, allowing City to transition from defense to attack much faster. In fact, the ball moved faster than any player could run, and the accuracy of their passing made them extremely effective going forward.
Of course, there was a drawback.
Their physical fitness was beginning to catch up with them, and everyone on the pitch was aware of it.
Now, it had become a race against time.
After regaining their composure following that intense spell of attacking pressure, City launched another incisive assault.
