Hoping to catch Liverpool off guard, City rushed to take the corner quickly. David Silva jogged over and swung a dangerous ball into the crowded penalty area.
The ball looped through the air, spinning viciously as both sets of players battled to win the aerial duel. Bodies clashed in the box, arms jostled for position, and for a split second, it seemed like City might capitalize.
But Liverpool's towering presence in goal, Alisson Becker, was having none of it. With a leap that showcased his incredible reflexes and command of the area, Alisson surged forward, punching the ball clear of the penalty box and away from immediate danger.
As the ball soared out of the crowded box, it landed near the left side of the pitch where Sadio Mane, alert and ever-predatory, was already in position. Mane's eyes lit up, his instincts kicking in as he sprinted toward the loose ball.