On Sunday, Arsenal defeated Manchester City 4-1 in a penalty shootout to win the Community Shield and indirectly send a strong warning to the rest of the premier league teams that they are well poised as far as the new season is concerned.
The game at London’s Wembley Stadium ended in a 1-1 draw between Arsenal and the Premier League champions, forcing a penalty shootout in which Fabio Vieira converted the winning penalty.
The Community Shield matches frequently have a “friendly” feel, but with cynical fouls and smashing tackles in the bright London sun, there was no lack of emotion—possibly leftover from City’s victory in the title race last season.
“For us, it’s a statement. It’s a marker to know we can go and beat Man City in a big game when it matters,” Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale told ITV. “I’m not sure what it’ll be like this season. But that mental block is gone. We’re ready to push on now.”
Even though City dominated the first half in terms of possession, Arsenal had the better chances, with significant close-season recruit Kai Havertz twice missing out on chances to score his first goal after having two shots stopped by Stefan Ortega.
The goal was scored by substitute Cole Palmer, whose looping shot from the edge of the box beat Aaron Ramsdale of the Arsenal defense in the second half as Pep Guardiola’s team displayed increased energy. John Stones had a header saved. After that, Ramsdale was forced into action again quickly, stopping Phil Foden and Rodri to hold the deficit at one goal.
After Kyle Walker and Thomas Partey collided, resulting in both players needing bandages for head injuries, there were eight additional minutes added to the game. However, Arsenal fought back to tie the score in the 101st minute on a goal by Leandro Trossard that was deflected.
The win extended City’s run of defeats in Community Shield matches, following losses to Liverpool last season and Leicester City in 2021.
“We have to pick ourselves up and go again,” City goalscorer Palmer told ITV. “When I got the ball Pep told me to be myself. I cut in and saw the far corner. Thankfully it went in.
“Hopefully we can win the treble again, but it will be a difficult ask. The lads are sharp in training.”
