Man City Lose to Inter on Penalties in Maresca’s Debut

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite suffering a penalty shootout defeat to Inter Milan in his first match in charge of the Premier League champions.

City were held to a 1-1 draw before losing 3-1 on penalties in a pre-season friendly played in Hong Kong on Saturday, with Matteo Lavelli converting the decisive spot-kick for the Serie A champions.

The match marked Maresca’s first outing as City manager after succeeding Pep Guardiola in June.

Speaking after the game, the Italian coach said he was encouraged by his side’s display despite the result.

“I’m very happy with the performance,” Maresca told reporters.

“Many positive things, including minutes for the legs, that’s very important.

“Like always, there are things we can do better, but slowly, slowly, we’re going to improve.”

Manchester City opened the scoring in the 14th minute after Antoine Semenyo produced an impressive run down the left before delivering a low cross that youngster Divin Mubama converted from close range.

Semenyo continued to trouble the Inter defence and nearly doubled City’s advantage moments later with a brilliant solo effort, weaving past several defenders before being denied by goalkeeper Josep Martinez.

Inter responded quickly, capitalising on City’s inability to clear a dangerous cross from Jamal Iddrissou. The loose ball fell kindly for Benjamin Pavard, who calmly fired home from inside the penalty area to level the score.

Both teams created several opportunities after the interval in an entertaining contest, but neither side managed to find a winning goal in regulation time.

City defender Vitor Reis came closest when his effort struck the crossbar, while highly rated youngster Ryan McAidoo also rattled the post as the English side searched for a late winner.

With the scores still level at full-time, the match went straight to penalties, where Inter held their nerve to secure a 3-1 victory.

Although City’s pre-season campaign began with defeat, Maresca appeared pleased with the fitness levels, tactical discipline and overall performance of his players as preparations for the new season continue.