Carabao Cup final 2026: Nico O'Reilly double helps Man City beat Arsenal wins League Cup title at Wembley
Manchester City claimed a 2-0 victory over Arsenal to win the 2025/26 Carabao Cup final at Wembley, with Nico O’Reilly emerging as the hero. The young midfielder struck twice in quick succession during the second half, turning a tight contest into a decisive win for Pep Guardiola’s side.
The breakthrough came amid controversy, as Kepa Arrizabalaga’s costly error gifted City their opening goal. Mikel Arteta’s decision to start Kepa ahead of regular No.1 David Raya is now set to face heavy scrutiny after the mistake shifted momentum firmly in City’s favour.
The result ends Arsenal’s hopes of securing a historic quadruple this season and leaves them with fresh concerns after Eberechi Eze picked up an injury. Despite the setback, Arsenal remain in a strong Premier League position, holding a nine-point lead at the top with seven games remaining, though a crucial trip to the Etihad Stadium on April 19 still looms.
For City, the triumph marks their ninth League Cup title and a fifth under Guardiola, offering a major boost after recent disappointment, including their Champions League exit to Real Madrid and slipping behind Arsenal in the title race. After a lacklustre first half, City returned with intensity and purpose, driven on by Guardiola’s energy on the touchline, overwhelming Arsenal before O’Reilly delivered the decisive blows.
Arsenal now face a two-week pause during the international break to regroup before key fixtures against Southampton and Sporting in the FA Cup and Champions League. Meanwhile, City turn their attention to a high-stakes FA Cup clash against Liverpool, carrying renewed confidence after their Wembley success.
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