Arsenal, the Premier League runners-up of the 2022-23 season, kicked off the new season in style by defeating reigning treble-winners Manchester City 4-1 in a penalty shootout to secure the FA Community Shield.
In a thrilling showdown at Wembley on Sunday, the match headed to a penalty shootout after both teams were deadlocked at 1-1 following regular time and extra time. Despite Manchester City’s impressive treble-winning campaign last season, Arsenal emerged victorious in the Community Shield clash.
The momentum swung in favor of City when Cole Parmer curled in a sublime shot in the 77th minute, granting the defending champions a lead. Even during extra time, City appeared to maintain control. However, a late effort from Leandro Trossard, which deflected off City’s Manuel Akanji, secured a timely equalizer for the Gunners.
Trossard’s goal in the 101st minute led the match into a penalty shootout. Arsenal’s captain, Martin Odegaard, confidently converted the opening penalty, giving his team a 1-0 advantage. City’s Kevin De Bruyne, on the other hand, faltered in his penalty attempt. Trossard struck again to make it 2-0 in favor of Arsenal. Although Bernardo Silva successfully converted a penalty for City, the gap remained at 2-1.
Bukayo Saka’s successful penalty increased the pressure on City, particularly after Aaron Ramsdale, Arsenal’s goalkeeper, saved Rodri’s shot. Fabio Vieira’s precise conversion sealed a convincing 4-1 victory for Arsenal in the penalty shootout.
Throughout the match, Arsenal showcased significant promise and missed opportunities, with new acquisition Kai Havertz squandering two clear chances. The contributions of recent arrivals Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice, who was acquired for £105 million, were noteworthy.
Aaron Ramsdale’s sharp goalkeeping in the later stages of the game kept the Gunners in contention and set the stage for an electrifying finish.
Despite Ramsdale’s efforts, City’s Cole Parmer managed to open the scoring after an impressive play led by Phil Foden. The 21-year-old Palmer, a winner of the England U21 Euros, appears poised for a standout season with City.
Arsenal’s victory in the FA Community Shield serves as a fitting response to their previous loss to City in the Premier League title race. The Gunners now set their sights on challenging the defending champions as they vie for the Premier League crown.
While Man City is slated to commence their Premier League title defense against Burnley on Friday, Arsenal will welcome Nottingham Forest a day later.
