August 08, (THEWILL) – In the curtain-raiser for the 2023/2024 English Premier League season at Wembley, Arsenal emerged victorious by beating Manchester City 4-1 on penalties to lift the Community Shield.
The match was marked by intense competition, with both teams displaying energy and determination throughout the game. Fabio Vieira’s spot-kick proved to be the winner for the Gunners after Kevin de Bruyne and Rodri failed to convert for the Treble winners.
Mikel Arteta’s side had faced the prospect of defeat when substitute Cole Palmer scored a sublime opener in the 77th minute, but Leandro Trossard’s heavily deflected effort in stoppage time equalised the score, leading to a penalty shootout.
Earlier, Julian Alvarez missed a significant connection with a header for City, while Arsenal’s new signings, Kai Havertz, Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber, starting in the game, had their moments. Havertz’s chances were brilliantly denied on two occasions by City’s goalkeeper, Stefan Ortega, in the first half. Credit goes to William Saliba, who held off the threats of City’s Erling Haaland.
In their next match, City will start the defence of their EPL title against newly-promoted Burnley, while Arsenal are up against Nottingham Forest. The thrilling Community Shield encounter revealed the intensity and spirit of competition among the top clubs and perfectly sets the stage for an enthralling season ahead in the EPL.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
