Arsenal began the 2026/27 season in emphatic fashion, defeating Manchester City 3-0 at Cardiff Stadium to lift the FA Community Shield for a record-equalling 18th time.
The victory sparked celebrations among Nigerian descendants in Arsenal’s squad, with Bukayo Saka leading the way as the Gunners produced a dominant performance against Pep Guardiola’s side.
Arsenal took just one minute to break the deadlock when Riccardo Calafiori fired home to give the north London side an early 1-0 advantage.
Arsenal continued to control proceedings, with Tzolis proving a constant threat in the final third. His creativity eventually paid off in the 30th minute when he set up Kai Havertz, who calmly converted to double Arsenal’s lead.
The Gunners went into half-time 2-0 ahead and continued their dominance after the restart.
Just two minutes into the second half, Martin Ødegaard made it 3-0, with Tzolis again providing the assist to complete an outstanding individual contribution.
Manchester City struggled to find a way back into the contest as Arsenal defended their advantage comfortably and maintained control until the final whistle.
Arsenal 3-0 Manchester City: Goals
- 1′ – Riccardo Calafiori: Arsenal 1-0 Manchester City
- 30′ – Kai Havertz: Arsenal 2-0 Manchester City
- 47′ – Martin Ødegaard: Arsenal 3-0 Manchester City
The victory gives Arsenal an early piece of silverware and a major confidence boost ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
For Tzolis, his two assists made him one of the standout performers, while Saka and Arsenal’s Nigerian-descended stars celebrated a memorable start to the new season.
Arsenal’s 18th Community Shield triumph also underlined their early-season credentials as they prepare for another demanding 2026/27 campaign.
