Nico O’Reilly netted two goals in a breathtaking five-minute spell during the second half, leading Manchester City to a 2-0 victory in the Carabao Cup final, effectively ending Arsenal’s hopes of a quadruple.
The Arsenal goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, made an unfortunate mistake, fumbling a cross from Rayan Cherki that allowed O’Reilly to score from close range just after the hour mark.
Just four minutes later, a dominant City side increased their lead as O’Reilly finished from a Matheus Nunes cross, prompting Pep Guardiola to celebrate animatedly along the touchline.
Meanwhile, Riccardo Calafiori hit the post and Gabriel Jesus struck the crossbar as Arsenal sought to respond, but City held on for the win, marking the 19th trophy in Guardiola’s impressive 10-year stint at the club.
Heading into the final, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal aimed to achieve an unprecedented four trophies this season and end a six-year trophy drought. Yet, the defeat at Wembley may compound their reputation as the “nearly men” and raises critical questions regarding their future campaign.
Currently, City sits nine points behind Arsenal in the race for the Premier League title but holds a game in hand over Arteta’s squad, who will also have to visit the Etihad Stadium next month.