Dream Start! Arsenal Rout ManCity in Community Shield
The Gunners secure the first English trophy of the season, succeeding Crystal Palace and Oliver Glasner.
FC Arsenal makes a statement, defeating Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield, where the FA Cup winner traditionally faces the league champion.
The "Gunners" get off to a dream start in the new season. Calafiori is played through by Lewis-Skelly with a perfect through ball and, unchallenged, taps in for 1-0 after just 23 seconds.
It is the fastest goal in the Community Shield since Bobby Owen for Manchester City against West Bromwich Albion in 1968.
Foden's First Effort
Manchester City sought an equalizer in their first match under new coach Enzo Maresca. Foden had their first effort after 20 minutes, but his long-range shot from around 20 yards was saved by Arsenal keeper Raya.
The game subsequently developed into an attractive contest with chances for both sides. In the 28th minute, Arsenal became dangerous again: a cross from Odegaard was flicked on by new signing Tzolis to Havertz, who once again demonstrated his knack for scoring in finals and made it 2-0.
Raya Denies Haaland
Both teams had good opportunities shortly before half-time.
First, Raya made a strong save from close range against Haaland, then shortly after, White just managed to throw himself in front of a dangerous shot. The Arsenal keeper would have been helpless here.
At the other end, a shot from Ödegaard was cleared off the line (45+1).
Odegaard Seals the Deal
After the break, Arsenal continued where they left off before half-time. Following a pass from Tzolis, it was captain Ödegaard this time who slotted the ball past Donnarumma into the net for 3-0 (47').
Subsequently, the game increasingly fizzled out, and clear scoring opportunities remained scarce. Saka was the most likely to create danger, with his shot in the 80th minute going just over the bar. Two minutes later, Semenyo was denied by Raya at the other end.
Thus, Arsenal wins the first competitive match of the new season and secures the title. The "Gunners" succeed Crystal Palace, who had triumphed against Liverpool last year under Oliver Glasner.
