Palermo versus Manchester City met expectations. A fantastic turnout, with nearly 35,000 fans in attendance, goals and excitement on the field from the English side, providing a solid test for Pippo Inzaghi’s squad, despite the technical disparity.

Ultimately, Pep Guardiola ’s team triumphed 3-0 in a family-friendly match (both clubs belong to the City Football Group), which was part of the inaugural Anglo-Palermitan Trophy, celebrating the 125-year history of the Rosanero club.

Musical dedication

The pre-match festivities were remarkable, featuring three songs performed in the midfield by Rose Villain, along with a choreography from the North Curve, to the tune of 'Live Forever' by Oasis, dedicated to the Gallagher brothers as Palermo supporters.

A strong start by the Sicilians, energized by the crowd, was insufficient to trouble City, who, after a sluggish beginning, began to find their rhythm and control the match.

Guardiola's captain, Erling Haaland, put Guardiola's team ahead in the 25th minute with a shot that left Alfred Gomis with no chance in the Palermo goal.

The Rosanero, aware of their opponents' quality, attempted to play as much as possible, trying to limit space for their rivals. They succeeded for the remainder of the first half, but in the second half, they conceded two more goals.

Reijnders decisive

The English side, bolstered by substitutions - Guardiola made 10 changes for the second half - extended their lead with new signing Tijjani Reijnders. The former AC Milan player scored to make it 2-0 in the 59th minute and then sealed the score in the 82nd minute to finalize it at 3-0.

The Dutchman also had an opportunity for a personal hat-trick just before halftime, but he misjudged the timing to finish after bypassing the opposing goalkeeper.

For Inzaghi's team, however, it was a crucial test ahead of their Coppa Italia match away against Cremonese next Saturday. For Guardiola, on the same day, the Premier League kicks off at Wolverhampton.

Listen to Guardiola below.