Community Shield: Arsenal win on penalties

Arsenal 1 - 1 Manchester City

Arsenal won 4-1 on penalties 

The Community Shield victory gave Arsenal's title hopes a psychological boost as they beat Pep Guardiola's side on penalties.

Cole Palmer curled home a stunning strike. He thought he would win it for City after a largely forgettable 70 minutes in the season curtain-raiser. However, Leandro Trossard equalised in the 101st minute after his shot was deflected into the net.

In the end, Arsenal won on spot-kicks after Kevin de Bruyne struck the crossbar, Rodri had his effort saved, and then Fabio Vieira converted to seal the victory.

A statement of intent from Arsenal?

Despite leading the Premier League for over 240 days last season, Arsenal's challenge fell apart as City overtook them in the final stages to win the Treble along with the Champions League and FA Cup.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta spoke with a lot of media outlets before the match. He admitted that the end of last season still hurt, and was clearly desperate to get one over City, who beat his side home and away last season.

Premier League news (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com)

Arsenal introduced their notable summer acquisitions - Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber - for their competitive debut. However, a sense of déjà vu loomed as Havertz missed two significant chances during the opening half. Just when the script seemed predictable, Palmer's remarkable goal tilted the scales in favor of City, putting them in the lead.

But Arteta's team fought to the end and came out on top in the shootout after substitute Trossard scored.

More than just a friendly?

A Community Shield victory is often downplayed. Historical trends indicate that it rarely translates into a Premier League championship triumph. Since 2011, only one instance exists where the Community Shield winner subsequently clinched the league title.

Nevertheless, those associated with Arsenal are unlikely to be bothered by this statistic at the moment. They are basking in the glow of a favorable outcome following the disheartening conclusion to the previous season.

Despite this, Arsenal fans erupted in celebration as their team lifted the Community Shield. The match showcased the competitive spirit of both teams and set the stage for another exciting season ahead in the Premier League.

Some of the best reaction

Fabio Vieira put it away when it mattered! 💥#Arteta #ARSMCI #Arsenal #AFC pic.twitter.com/P52PVNAcVI

— AFTV (@AFTVMedia) August 7, 2023

Jacob, an Arsenal fan, told us: "What a way to start the season! We displayed some decent mettle in that penalty shootout. I think that bodes well for the new season."

Daniel, also a devoted Arsenal supporter, gave the blog his perspective: "Taking a positive outlook on our potential this season, we managed to weather an uncertain start and capitalise on a late opportunity. Witnessing Trossard maintain his form and observing Timber's capabilities was truly satisfying. As a dedicated Arsenal fan, the signs are evident, and I'm eagerly anticipating the upcoming season."

Macca, a Man City fan, told us: "Penalties can be cruel, but we shouldn't be too worried about losing this match. It's a long season ahead, and we have the talent to overcome setbacks."

John, a fellow supporter of Manchester City, chimed in on Facebook, saying, "Our aspiration is to secure the Treble once more, although it's undeniably a challenging pursuit. The players have been displaying remarkable sharpness during training."

Expanding on his thoughts, he expressed, "On the whole, I'm genuinely content with the team's performance. We were clearly the superior side, and Arsenal's sole goal was a result of a massive deflection in the 101st minute. Our sluggish starts are customary, yet today's display instills me with more confidence than ever. It's gratifying to witness Kovacic's solid showing, and our defensive resilience was exceptional, especially with Gvardiol's imminent contribution."

Jamie was in the City end at Wembley. He told us: "While it's disheartening to have suffered a loss, it's worth noting that our performance last season wasn't all that bad despite the setback in the Community Shield. I believe there's room for another attacking dimension, and I'm hopeful that we secure a skilled winger before the transfer window concludes."