By Ayomide Otitoju
Manchester City capitalised on a costly error by Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga to secure a 2-0 win and lift the League Cup at Wembley on Sunday, with Nico O’Reilly scoring twice in the second half.
The match turned on Kepa’s mishap when he allowed Rayan Cherki’s cross to slip through his hands, presenting O’Reilly with a close-range header to put City ahead. Four minutes later, O’Reilly doubled the lead with another precise finish, securing Manchester City’s ninth League Cup and giving manager Pep Guardiola a record fifth triumph in the competition.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s decision to start Kepa over first-choice David Raya backfired, continuing the Spaniard’s troubled history in the tournament. Kepa previously made headlines for costly errors in the 2019 final with Chelsea and missed a penalty in the 2022 League Cup final against Liverpool.
Despite the setback, Arsenal remain in contention for other honours this season, including the Premier League, FA Cup quarter-finals against Southampton, and the Champions League quarter-finals against Sporting Lisbon.
City, who had just exited the Champions League last-16 against Real Madrid, earned a crucial boost after a trophyless previous season. Guardiola celebrated passionately, suggesting his commitment to the club remains strong despite ongoing speculation over his future.
The victory was also notable for goalkeeper James Trafford, who started over regular choice Gianluigi Donnarumma and made a stunning triple save in the first half to deny Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal’s early pressing limited City’s attacking chances, but City dominated after halftime. Kepa’s blunder allowed City to take control, with O’Reilly’s second goal effectively ending the contest. Guardiola’s celebrations were animated, reflecting the relief and joy of ending City’s short trophy drought.
The result gives Manchester City momentum as they look to close the Premier League gap on leaders Arsenal and continue their pursuit of domestic and European honours.
