Arsenal kicked off their USA tour with a commanding performance in the MLS All-Star match in Washington.
With a flurry of stunning goals from Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz, and a penalty tucked away by Jorginho, the Gunners repeated their 2016 success in the fixture with an even more comfortable victory.
- Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz all scored in the MLS All-Star match, helping Arsenal to a 5-0 victory.
- Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka won the MVP award.
- Arsenal’s summer signing Declan Rice made his first appearance in an Arsenal shirt during the match.
Arsenal triumph in MLS All-Star Match
It was a bright night in Washington as Arsenal lit up the pitch with a captivating performance against the MLS All-Stars.
They not only replicated their 2016 success but did it with a larger winning margin, marking a brilliant start to their USA tour.
Early fireworks light up the pitch
As the pre-match festivities subsided, Gabriel Jesus proved that Arsenal were tonight’s main attraction, scoring within the first five minutes.
The team dominated possession, with Bukayo Saka assisting Jesus’ goal with a brilliant pass. The 20,000 strong crowd at Audi Field roared as Arsenal dictated proceedings and continued to assert their dominance with a second goal midway through the first half.
Leandro Trossard shifted the ball onto his right foot and fired home from 20 yards, leaving Roman Burki with no chance. The MLS All-Stars, under the guidance of Wayne Rooney, made a series of changes, but the first half ended with Arsenal in the lead.
Second half sees new faces and goals
The second half saw new faces on the pitch and an increase in Arsenal’s lead.
Jorginho tucked away a penalty for handball, adding to Arsenal’s lead.
With 25 minutes remaining, Mikel Arteta sent on Declan Rice for his first appearance in an Arsenal shirt, alongside Jurrien Timber.
Arsenal secure victory
Arsenal didn’t slow down despite the wholesale changes.
Martin Odegaard’s superb pass set up the fourth goal, finding Gabriel Martinelli, who took his shot low into the corner. Kai Havertz also got in on the action, with a thunderous drive, sealing the victory for Arsenal.
The MLS All-Star match was just the beginning of Arsenal’s USA tour, with fixtures against Manchester United and Barcelona lined up.
Arteta reflects on the victory
Following the match, Mikel Arteta had plenty of positives to take from his team’s performance.
From the debuts of new signings to the impressive form of his players, the match was a testament to Arsenal’s preparation and chemistry. Despite the heat and changes in the team, Arsenal were exceptional in their execution, providing a great spectacle for the fans.
This victory bodes well for Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures and the forthcoming season, as they aim to continue this fantastic form.
With a blend of talent, both old and new, the team’s future looks bright under Arteta’s guidance. Arsenal’s emphatic performance in Washington was just a glimpse of what’s to come.