How Arsenal thumbed Manchester City in the Community Shield

• Manchester City played Arsenal in the 2023/24 FA Community Shield
• The two were the winners and the runners-up of the Premier League last season
• Arsenal equalized in the stoppage time to go on and win the trophy through a penalty shootout

In a riveting curtain-raiser for the new season, Arsenal clinched the Community Shield by outdueling Manchester City in a dramatic penalty shootout. The game was a roller-coaster of emotions, with twists and turns that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

The match appeared to be City’s to claim when substitute Cole Palmer showcased his brilliance with a sublime curling shot, handing them the lead in regular time. Just as victory seemed certain, fate intervened with a last-minute twist. Leandro Trossard’s shot, deflected in by Manuel Akanji, leveled the score at 1-1, forcing the game into a tense penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Arsenal’s nerves of steel were evident as they calmly converted all their penalties. Arsenal’s goalkeeper, Aaron Ramsdale, emerged as the hero, denying Kevin De Bruyne’s shot with a crossbar rebound and saving Rodri’s weak attempt. These crucial interventions secured Arsenal’s triumph, avenging their previous year’s defeat to City in the same fixture.

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Arsenal are the winners of the 2023 FA Community Shield after defeating Manchester City at Wembley. | PHOTO: Evening Standard |

Erling Haaland’s quiet performance mirrored that of the prior season, but it was substitute Cole Palmer who stole the spotlight. His exquisite goal had initially appeared to secure another trophy for Manchester City until the late equalizer shifted the dynamics.

Arsenal introduced their new signings, including Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber, in a display of their ambition. Mateo Kovacic, newly arrived from Chelsea, was Manchester City’s lone addition, highlighting their squad strengthening.

The match wasn’t without its controversies. New refereeing guidelines led to bookings for players like Thomas Partey and Julian Alvarez for kicking the ball away. Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, also felt the impact, receiving a booking for vehemently protesting a non-cautioned shirt pull on Kai Havertz.

Despite City’s dominance in possession, it was Arsenal that came closest to breaking the deadlock. Stefan Ortega’s saves denied Kai Havertz’s attempts, highlighting the Gunners’ intent.

As the game progressed, Haaland’s substitution for Palmer injected new energy into City’s attack. Palmer’s immediate impact earned him a corner and a stunning goal that showcased his talent.

However, football’s unpredictability shone through as Leandro Trossard’s late equalizer, via a deflection, kept Arsenal in the hunt.

In the penalty shootout, Arsenal triumphed 4-1. Captain Martin Odegaard’s successful penalty kick set the tone. De Bruyne’s shot hitting the crossbar and Trossard’s successful strike put Arsenal in control. Bukayo Saka, who had faced penalty heartbreak in the Euro 2020 final, calmly netted his penalty.

Ramsdale’s save on Rodri’s lackluster penalty sealed Arsenal’s victory. Fabio Vieira then slotted home, sealing the win for the Gunners.

In conclusion, Arsenal’s victory in the Community Shield was a testament to their resilience and composure in a high-stakes shootout. The match encapsulated football’s drama, skill, and unpredictability, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.