Manchester City win EFL Cup

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Arsenal 0 - 2 Manchester City

Manchester City brought an emphatic end to Arsenal’s pursuit of a historic quadruple with a deserved Carabao Cup final victory.

Authors | Macca and DJ

Stadium | Wembley

Views from around Wembley Stadium

Nico O’Reilly struck twice in the space of four second-half minutes as Pep Guardiola’s side asserted their authority over the Premier League leaders with a performance of real control and incision.

It proved a bruising afternoon for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta, whose decision to persist with Kepa Arrizabalaga in this competition, ahead of first-choice David Raya, unravelled at a crucial moment.

Kepa presented City with the opening goal just past the hour, spilling what should have been a routine cross from Rayan Cherki and allowing O’Reilly to capitalise with a stooping header.

Watch | View from the stands at Wembley. Video uploaded from Shorts LM

O’Reilly added a second soon after, arriving unmarked at the far post to meet Matheus Nunes’ delivery with another firm header, prompting Guardiola to charge down the touchline in celebration.

The victory ensures Guardiola becomes the first manager to claim the EFL Cup on five occasions, while Arsenal must continue their wait for silverware, their last triumph remaining the FA Cup success of 2020.

Three different Arsenal fans respond to this final defeat

Jamie: I think the defeat may have a knock-on effect on the players’ mentality, interrupting what felt like genuine momentum after an impressive performance against Bayer Leverkusen. That said, the international break comes at a helpful time. It should allow the squad to reset, reflect and sharpen up, while maintaining match fitness with their national sides.

Christopher: I am not overly concerned. The international break offers a pause, and facing Manchester City is not a weekly occurrence. There is little reason to dwell on the result. Even if City were to win all of their remaining fixtures, it would not be decisive provided we match their consistency.

Anthony: The greater concern lies with the midfield and attack, which appear to have dipped in form. Results have still come, but often through persistence and a slice of fortune. Too many players look short of sharpness and predictable in possession. Without fresh impetus or individuals willing to step up, there is a real risk the situation could unravel.

Location: Wembley, UK

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