Erik ten Hag was pleased with his team’s performance at Wembley (Photo: Getty Images)
Erik ten Hag felt his Manchester United side showed they can compete with Manchester City on equal terms in the Community Shield and is confident heading into the Premier League season.
City won the Community Shield tournament at Wembley Stadium, but they were pushed all the way, with the Premier League champions needing a penalty shootout to overcome their local rivals after a 1-1 draw.
Alejandro Garnacho put the Red Devils ahead in the 82nd minute before Bernardo Silva’s late equalizer. Then, the Portuguese missed his spot-kick, but Jadon Sancho and Jonny Evans also failed from the spot as City claimed the trophy.
Pep Guardiola’s side started the game well and were dominant in the first 20 minutes, but United grew into the game after a shaky start.
Ten Hag’s team created better chances and certainly deserved more than just Garnacho’s impressive goal, as Marcus Rashford and Scott McTominay missed good opportunities.
The Dutchman quickly looked on the bright side after the painful defeat and hopes his team will build on their performance.
Asked about the positives, he told ITV: „To be on an equal level with City. By pushing Rashford high up the field and defending well, we did very well.
„We pressed the ball and also controlled the ball, had some very good plays in midfield, very good through balls, and created chances from that, so we can take a lot of positives from it.
Initially, Ten Hag was asked if it was a tough loss, and he replied: „Yes, definitely. When the performance is right, when you win and lose, everyone feels it.
„It hurts the stomach. We have to accept it, but you have to hurt, you have to feel the pain now because it will motivate us, give us the motivation to do better.
„The positive thing we can take from it is that we can compete with City. We have to take this belief into the league.“
Marcus Rashford missed two good chances and, as he did throughout last season, looked off his best.
However, Ten Hag defended his forward when questioned about his performance at the post-match press conference, saying: „No, I think he was in very good positions a few times, I’m very happy he’s taking up those positions.
„Keep going and keep taking up those positions, and he will score.“
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