LEICESTER: Liverpool's new striker Darwin Nunez scored a late goal on his debut as they drew first blood in this season's rivalry with Manchester City after a 3-1 win in Saturday's Community Shield.
The Uruguayan, bought from Benfica for an initial fee of 75 million euros ($76.64 million), made himself an instant fan favourite after capping a lively appearance off the bench with a stoppage time goal to secure the first trophy of the season.
English champions City started their big close-season signing, Norway's Erling Haaland but, in contrast to Nunez, he had a disappointing debut, missing several chances and struggling to combine with his new team mates.
However, another new City face — Argentine forward Julian Alvarez - found the target after coming on in the second half.
Trent Alexander-Arnold had opened the scoring, firing Juergen Klopp's Liverpool side ahead in the 21st minute of the 100th edition of the annual clash between the league champions and FA Cup winners.
It was another new striking addition who brought City level in the 70th minute when Phil Foden's shot was parried by Adrian and with the ball spilling loose, former River Plate forward Alvarez pounced to net his first goal for the club.
Referee Craig Pawson went to the monitor before ruling that City defender Ruben Dias had handled at close range from a Nunez header and Mohamed Salah drilled home the penalty to restore Liverpool's lead in the 83rd minute.
Nunez then capped an eventful appearance from the bench, scoring with an angled header after Andy Robertson had nodded the ball into his path.
Haaland's testing debut ended with him missing a sitter when Phil Foden's shot was pushed out by Adrian and the blond forward blasted his shot against the bar and over. Agencies
Also Watch: Assam: Major Boost For War Against Drugs, Cops Seize Huge Drugs Consignment