Guardiola Breaks Record with Ninth EFL Cup Win as Man City Defeats Arsenal
Synopsis
In an exhilarating EFL Cup final, Manchester City triumphed 2-0 over Arsenal, thanks to a stunning brace from Nico O'Reilly. This victory marks Pep Guardiola's record-setting fifth League Cup title as manager, solidifying his legacy in English football.
Key Takeaways
Manchester City won the EFL Cup final 2-0 against Arsenal .
Nico O'Reilly scored both goals in a quick succession during the second half.
Pep Guardiola set a record with his fifth League Cup win as a manager.
City remains in contention for the Premier League title.
Next up is a match against Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
London, March 23 (NationPress) Manchester City claimed a 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the EFL Cup final, with Nico O'Reilly netting two goals within just four minutes during the second half to secure the win.
This triumph follows City’s remarkable four consecutive titles from 2018 to 2021 and represents their ninth League Cup title overall, placing them just behind Liverpool for the most victories in this competition.
Pep Guardiola has now achieved a record-breaking five League Cup victories as Manchester City's manager, surpassing the legendary figures of Brian Clough, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Jose Mourinho, who each have four titles to their names.
Throughout his tenure, Guardiola has led City to 29 wins out of 39 matches in the League Cup, scoring an impressive 83 goals while conceding only 26.
The Carabao Cup marked Pep’s inaugural trophy with City, having defeated Arsenal 3-0 back in 2018. This latest victory further cements his status as the most successful manager in the tournament's history since its inception in 1960.
After halftime, City displayed superior performance, rightfully earning their win against an Arsenal side that seemed to lack their usual sharpness, possibly due to the fatigue from a challenging Champions League match earlier in the week.
City's captain, Bernardo Silva, who has been a pivotal leader this season, expressed that this latest trophy is a proud moment for everyone associated with the club.
“This is a moment of immense pride for all of us at City,” he stated. “Winning this competition against Arsenal, who have been formidable this season, is especially meaningful.”
Following this victory, Manchester City will take a break for international fixtures before facing Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals on April 4. They will turn their attention to the Premier League the subsequent weekend with an away game against Chelsea.
City continues to vie for the Premier League title, currently trailing leaders Arsenal by nine points, although they hold one game in hand.
Point of View
It is evident that Manchester City's victory in the EFL Cup final is a significant milestone in the realm of English football. Pep Guardiola's strategic prowess and the team's performance highlight their dominance in the competition. This win not only adds to their trophy cabinet but also reinforces their status as a formidable force in both domestic and international football.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the goals in the EFL Cup final?
Nico O'Reilly scored both goals for Manchester City in the EFL Cup final against Arsenal.
What is Pep Guardiola's record in the EFL Cup?
Pep Guardiola has won the EFL Cup five times as Manchester City's manager, a record in English football.
How many League Cup titles has Manchester City won?
Manchester City has won a total of nine League Cup titles in their history.
What does this victory mean for Manchester City?
This victory cements Manchester City's dominance in the League Cup and enhances Pep Guardiola's legacy as a top manager.
When will Manchester City play their next match?
Manchester City will next face Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals on April 4.
