Arsenal Set Unwanted Record in League Cup Final Defeat

Arsenal’s 2-0 loss to Manchester City at Wembley not only denied them silverware but also etched their name into the history books for the wrong reasons.

The Gunners have now lost each of their last four League Cup finals, the outright longest run of final defeats by any side in the competition’s history.

Mikel Arteta’s side began brightly, creating the best chances in the opening 15 minutes, only to be denied by a stunning triple save from City’s young goalkeeper James Trafford.

But the game swung dramatically in the second half when Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga mishandled a Rayan Cherki cross, allowing Nico O’Reilly to score from close range.

The mistake proved decisive, shifting momentum firmly in City’s favour before O’Reilly added a second minutes later.

Arsenal’s strong first-half display gave supporters hope of ending their barren run in the competition, but the second-half collapse ensured their Wembley frustrations continued.

For Kepa, the defeat added to his personal misfortune, having now played in three League Cup finals without ever winning, two with Chelsea and now one with Arsenal.