TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Manchester City clinched the Carabao Cup, also known as the English League Cup, after defeating Arsenal 2-0 in the final at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, March 22, 2026. A brace from Nico O’Reilly secured the win and dashed Arsenal’s hopes of winning four trophies this season.
The City winger scored twice with headers in the second half within the space of four minutes. His quickfire double left Arsenal stunned and helped coach Pep Guardiola lift his fifth English League Cup trophy with Manchester City.
City’s first goal came from a mistake by Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who was selected ahead of first-choice keeper David Raya. Kepa failed to deal with a cross from Rayan Cherki on the right flank, allowing the ball to slip through his hands before O’Reilly headed it in at the far post.
O’Reilly added his second goal soon after, once again with a header, this time from a cross by Matheus Nunes. The goal doubled City’s advantage and sparked celebrations among the players and supporters.
Arsenal, appearing in a cup final for the first time since winning the FA Cup in 2020, tried to mount a comeback. They hit the woodwork twice through Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel Jesus. However, Manchester City’s experience allowed them to hold firm and protect their lead until the final whistle.
Arsenal had started the match brightly. They forced City goalkeeper James Trafford into three consecutive saves, including one from Kai Havertz and two follow-up efforts from Bukayo Saka.
But after a relatively even first half, City took control in the second period. Their sustained pressure produced two quick goals from O’Reilly, which ultimately decided the match.
The defeat dealt a blow to Arsenal’s hopes of winning multiple trophies this season. Although they remain top of the Premier League table with a nine-point lead, City still have a game in hand and are set to host Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on April 19.
O’Reilly, who was named man of the match, said the victory was especially meaningful.
“Unbelievable feeling to win a final and beat this team. We know how good they are,” he said, as quoted by Sky Sports.
He added that the win could provide momentum for City in the Premier League title race. "Now we need to build on it. It will give us good momentum. I'm buzzing with today.”
“A bit of disbelief seeing all the fans cheering like that when I scored those goals. A really good feeling, a great birthday weekend,” O’Reilly said.
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