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The Community Shield gets underway on Sunday between Manchester City and Chelsea at Villa Park.
This is a chance for both of these side’s to get their campaign of to a winning start over a fellow Premier League title contender and they are able to get some silverware in the trophy cabinet early on.
Looking at Manchester City to begin with, they are of course looking to retain their title this season and will want to hit the ground running, so a win here is important.
It may also be a chance for Roberto Mancini to see if he needs to strengthen in any areas before the transfer window closes.
The Citizens will certainly be going all out for the win in this encounter and will put the strongest side possible out.
Sergio Aguero will be looking to continue his goal-scoring form from last season where he scored 23 goals in the league. Aguero will be supported by Carlos Tevez and Mario Balotelli. Edin Dzeko could also make an appearance despite doubts over his future.
As for Chelsea, they now have Roberto Di Matteo in permanent charge at the club and players will be keen to catch his eye.
The Blues will be hopeful of challenging for the Premier League title this year after a sixth position finish last time out.
They did of course have success in both the Champions League and FA Cup though so fans would have been happy with the trophies won.
New star signing Eden Hazard will be looking to show what he is capable of and why he is so highly-rated.
Chelsea will know that a victory here will show everyone that they can challenge for top spot in the Premier League.
Di Matteo’s men are likely to still be on a high after their superb victory in Europe’s elite club competition.
Match Odds
After their league win back in May and the strength of their squad, it is no surprise that Manchester City are the favourites to come out on top here. You can back them to win in 90 minutes at 2.30 (13/10) with Bet365.
Chelsea are then being offered at 3.30 (23/10) with BWIN to be victorious inside 90 minutes.
A draw and the match then going into extra time is available at 3.40 (12/5) with BetFred.
First Goal-Scorer
Sergio Aguero is man who is leading the way in terms of breaking the deadlock. He is being offered at 6.50 (11/2) with StanJames.
Fernando Torres then looks to be Chelsea’s best chance of scoring first with odds of 8.00 (7/1) with Coral.
Recommended Bet
This could be a tight affair but in the end Man City will just pip their opponents to the post. A 2-1 win for the Citizens can be backed at 10.00 (9/1) with Betfair.
