Arsenal wins the Community Shield after a remarkable final phase

The Community Shield is played annually between the winners of the Premier League and the FA Cup. Nathan Aké is still absent due to an injury, but at least one Dutchman, Jurriën Timber, was on the field. He started in the unusual position of left-back.

Arsenal's Thomas Partey had to be careful early on as he was booked after just eight minutes. Shortly after, manager Mikel Arteta was also punished for remarks towards the officials. The first chance fell to Arsenal's Kai Havertz, who was denied by goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, and shortly after, Gabriel Martinelli missed an opportunity to make it 1-0.

Manchester City had to wait until early in the second half to register their first chance of the match as they were toothless in the first half. Aaron Ramsdale managed to save a header from John Stones. It was notable that Erling Haaland was substituted, almost invisible, after playing for over an hour. The Norwegian couldn't make an impact, much like many other Manchester City players. Not that they played poorly, but in most cases, Arsenal defended strongly. Timber was able to prevent danger on several occasions.

Fifteen minutes before the end, Manchester City broke the deadlock. After Arsenal lost the ball, the visitors countered swiftly. The ball found its way to substitute Cole Palmer on the right, who struck it into the left corner: 0-1. In the generously awarded stoppage time of a whopping eight minutes, something unexpected happened as Arsenal equalized 1-1 in the 100th minute (!) with a deflected shot from Leandro Trossard.

There was no extra time played, and penalties were taken immediately. Martin Ødegaard scored right away for Arsenal, but Kevin De Bruyne missed for Manchester City. Shortly after, Ramsdale saved Rodri's shot. Fábio Vieira scored for Arsenal, leading them to win the Community Shield.

Arsenal starts the league next week with a home game against Nottingham Forest, while Manchester City opens against Burnley.