By Peter John
Manchester City moved within touching distance of Carabao Cup success after a commanding 2-0 victory over Arsenal in a pulsating final at Wembley Stadium.
The match remained finely balanced at halftime, with both sides locked at 0-0 following a cagey opening period.
Arsenal showed defensive resilience, with William Saliba putting in an assured performance to keep Erling Haaland quiet.
City, however, came closest to breaking the deadlock before the break, only to be denied by missed chances and a spirited Arsenal backline.
The game shifted decisively in the second half as young midfielder Nico O’Reilly emerged as the difference-maker.
He opened the scoring with a composed finish after being set up by Rayan Cherki, before doubling City’s advantage with a well-timed strike from a cross delivered by Matheus Nunes.
Arsenal threatened in spells but were denied by an outstanding moment from City goalkeeper James Trafford, who produced a stunning triple save to keep his side ahead.
Both teams were missing key figures, including City defender Ruben Dias and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, yet City’s depth proved decisive.
With 62 percent possession, City controlled the tempo and saw out the closing stages professionally.
The result edges manager Pep Guardiola closer to a flawless League Cup final record, while marking a breakthrough performance for O’Reilly on one of football’s grandest stages.
