London: Manchester City produced a commanding second-half performance to defeat Arsenal 2-0 and claim the Carabao Cup at Wembley Stadium, with two quick-fire headers from Nico O’Reilly sealing the trophy.
City grew into the final after a cagey opening period before O’Reilly struck twice within four minutes after the break, leaving Arsenal stunned and handing Guardiola a record fifth League Cup triumph with the club. The City manager celebrated wildly on the touchline, sprinting and dancing in delight as his side wrapped up the silverware.
The breakthrough came when a routine cross from Rayan Cherki slipped through the grasp of Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, allowing O’Reilly to head home from close range. Moments later, the City youngster rose again to nod in a second, effectively ending the contest and sparking jubilant celebrations among the City players and supporters.
Arsenal had started cautiously and nearly took the lead earlier, but City goalkeeper James Trafford produced a superb triple save to deny Kai Havertz and twice stop Bukayo Saka, setting the tone for City’s resilience. From that point, Guardiola’s side looked more aggressive and purposeful, gradually overpowering their opponents.
Arteta’s decision to start Kepa ahead of first-choice David Raya proved costly. The Spanish goalkeeper had already been booked for a rash challenge on Jeremy Doku before his error gifted City the opener. Arsenal struggled to respond and lacked attacking urgency until the closing stages, by which time the game had slipped away.
The defeat means Arsenal’s wait for a first major trophy since 2020 continues, despite their strong position in the Premier League title race and ongoing campaigns in Europe and the FA Cup. Meanwhile, City’s victory adds another piece of silverware to Guardiola’s collection and may provide momentum for the closing weeks of the season.
On the day, Manchester City were simply the sharper, more decisive side — and their clinical burst after halftime proved enough to secure the Carabao Cup crown.
Source: BBC
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