Scorpion Kick

After David Silva placed the ball in the corner area, he slowly took two steps back. He took several deep breaths in succession, working hard to adjust the rhythm and frequency of his breathing, while also lifting his head to survey the situation inside the penalty area.

Inside Sunderland's penalty area, all the tall players had crowded in. The mass of heads made the scene look somewhat chaotic.

Su Dong stood near the front edge of the six-yard box, while Pepe and Kompany were both positioned at the far post.

It was completely impossible to tell what kind of routine Man City intended to use for this corner.

Sunderland's two center-backs were both tall and powerful, especially Bramble. He was a gigantic center-back of African descent who had played for Premier League clubs such as Ipswich, Newcastle, and Wigan Athletic. At that moment, he was pressed tightly against Su Dong's back, sticking to him without giving him an inch, his arms poised to wrap around him at any moment.

This made David Silva feel rather amused. Bramble probably had never been so focused even when hugging his girlfriend.

The Man City players inside the penalty area were also preparing to attack the ball. After seeing David Silva set it down, they began making their own hand signals. Pepe and Kompany were ready, while Su Dong at the near post was poised to spring into action. Everything depended on which spot David Silva would aim for.

At the referee's whistle, David Silva quickly ran up and whipped a curling ball with his left foot.

The ball traced an elegant arc before rapidly dropping into the penalty area.

David Silva's corner did not go directly toward Su Dong. Instead, it dropped toward the far post.

With Michael Turner interfering, Pepe forced himself