Manchester City claimed a 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the 2026 EFL Cup Final, with Nico O’Reilly scoring both goals to hand Pep Guardiola his fifth EFL Cup title.
Arsenal, who were seeking their first trophy of the season, remain in contention for both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, but their hopes for early silverware were dashed in a game that improved after a rather uneventful first half.
The opening goal arrived when Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga misjudged a routine ball, allowing O’Reilly to capitalize and score. Just four minutes later, the City forward doubled the lead with a headed finish, effectively deciding the match.
Guardiola’s win cements him as the first manager in history to lift the EFL Cup five times, reinforcing his legacy at the club even as rumors of his departure swirl.
Arsenal’s disappointment continues, with the club still seeking their first major trophy since 2020.
