Nico O’Reilly struck twice in a blistering five-minute spell in the second half as Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory over Arsenal to win the Carabao Cup, ending the Gunners’ hopes of a historic quadruple.
City broke the deadlock on the hour mark after a costly error from stand-in Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who fumbled Rayan Cherki’s cross. O’Reilly reacted quickest, heading home from close range to give Pep Guardiola’s side the lead.
The momentum remained firmly with City, and they doubled their advantage just four minutes later. O’Reilly completed his brace by converting Matheus Nunes’ cross, capping a dominant spell that left Arsenal reeling and Guardiola celebrating on the touchline.
Arsenal attempted to respond, with Riccardo Calafiori hitting the post and Gabriel Jesus striking the crossbar, but they were unable to break through as City held on comfortably to seal victory.
The triumph marks Guardiola’s 19th trophy in his 10 seasons at Manchester City, further underlining his success at the club.
For Mikel Arteta’s side, the defeat is a significant setback. Arsenal had entered the final aiming to end a six-year wait for silverware while pursuing an ambitious four-trophy haul this season.
Instead, the loss reinforces their reputation as falling just short in key moments and raises fresh questions about their campaign, particularly with a crucial Premier League title race still ongoing.
City remain nine points behind Arsenal in the league standings but have a game in hand, with a decisive meeting between the two sides at the Etihad Stadium scheduled next month.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
