Arsenal made a powerful statement ahead of the new Premier League season, beating Manchester City 3-0 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff to lift the 2026 Community Shield.
Riccardo Calafiori, Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard were the goalscorers who secured victory for Mikel Arteta’s side, while new signing Christos Tzolis played a major role by providing two assists.
⚽ Calafiori Strikes After Just 24 Seconds
Arsenal made the perfect start, taking the lead just 24 seconds into the match.
Myles Lewis-Skelly played an important role in the build-up before the ball reached Riccardo Calafiori, who finished to put Arsenal ahead.
The lightning-fast opener immediately put Manchester City under pressure and allowed Arsenal to settle into the game with confidence.
⚽ Havertz Doubles Arsenal’s Lead
Arsenal extended their advantage in the 28th minute through Kai Havertz.
The German forward converted a chance created by Tzolis, who impressed throughout the match with his pace, movement and attacking quality.
Havertz’s goal gave Arsenal a comfortable 2-0 lead heading into half-time and left City with a mountain to climb.
⚽ Ødegaard Completes the Rout
Arsenal put the game beyond Manchester City just three minutes after the restart.
Once again, Tzolis was involved, setting up captain Martin Ødegaard, who produced a brilliant piece of individual skill before calmly finishing past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The goal made it 3-0 and effectively sealed Arsenal’s Community Shield triumph.
🌟 Tzolis Makes His Mark
While Calafiori, Havertz and Ødegaard took the headlines for their goals, Christos Tzolis was one of Arsenal’s standout performers.
The £34 million summer signing from Club Brugge provided two assists and repeatedly caused problems for the Manchester City defence.
His performance will be particularly encouraging for Arteta, with Tzolis showing that he could become an important attacking option for Arsenal during the new campaign.
🔴 Arsenal Send Early Warning
The 3-0 victory gives Arsenal their first trophy of the new season and provides an early indication of their ambitions after winning the Premier League title last campaign.
Calafiori, Havertz and Ødegaard supplied the goals, while Tzolis added creativity and threat in attack as Arsenal produced an impressive all-round performance.
For Manchester City, it was a disappointing start to Enzo Maresca’s first competitive game in charge following Pep Guardiola’s departure.
Final score: Arsenal 3-0 Manchester City
Goals: Riccardo Calafiori 1′, Kai Havertz 28′, Martin Ødegaard 48′.
