On Sunday, Arsenal defeated Manchester City 4-1 in a dramatic penalty shootout to win the Community Shield and deliver the first blow in their ongoing rivalry.

The game at London's Wembley Stadium ended in a 1-1 draw between Arsenal and the Premier League champions, forcing a penalty shootout in which Fabio Vieira converted the win.

The Community Shield matches usually have a "friendly" atmosphere, but there was no shortage of energy in the London sunshine, with cynical fouls and crunching tackles. This intensity may have been carried over from City's victory in the title race last season.

“For us, it’s a statement. It’s a marker to know we can go and beat Man City in a big game when it matters,” Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale told ITV.

“I’m not sure what it’ll be like this season. But that mental block is gone. We’re ready to push on now.”

Even though City dominated the first half in terms of possession, Arsenal had the better chances, with significant close-season recruit Kai Havertz twice missing out on chances to score his first goal after having two shots stopped by Stefan Ortega.

The goal was scored by substitute Cole Palmer, whose looping shot from the edge of the box beat Aaron Ramsdale of the Arsenal defence in the second half as Pep Guardiola's team displayed increased energy. John Stones had a header saved.

The game was subsequently tied in the 11th minute of added time thanks to a deflected Leandro Trossard goal after Ramsdale was forced into action twice in rapid succession. He stopped Phil Foden and Rodri to keep the deficit to one goal.

After Ramsdale stopped a poor shot from Rodri and City's Kevin de Bruyne hit the crossbar in the shootout, Vieira secured Arsenal's 17th win of the season, bringing them into second place behind Manchester United in the all-time list.

The win extended City’s run of defeats in Community Shield matches, following losses to Liverpool last season and Leicester City in 2021.