Arsenal Lift 2025 Emirates Cup with 3–0 Win Over Athletic Club
Arsenal wrapped up their pre-season in emphatic fashion on Saturday, securing the 2025 Emirates Cup with a 3–0 victory over Athletic Club at the Emirates Stadium.
New signing, Viktor Gyökeres opened his account for the Gunners with a thumping header, meeting Martin Zubimendi’s inch-perfect cross midway through the first half. The breakthrough was swiftly followed by Bukayo Saka doubling the lead just two minutes later, as the England winger continued his blistering form.
Substitute, Kai Havertz rounded off the scoring late on with a composed finish, sealing a performance Arsenal’s match report described as “controlled” and one in which the visitors “barely threatened in the second half.”
From kick-off, Arsenal asserted themselves, with Saka’s pace and trickery down the right forcing early saves from Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simón. Gabriel Martinelli also tested the Basque side before Zubimendi’s relentless pressing and clever distribution unlocked the first goal.
Declan Rice initiated the move, spreading play to Saka, who returned the ball to Zubimendi for the pinpoint delivery to Gyökeres.
The result concludes a promising pre-season for Mikel Arteta’s side, who will begin their Premier League campaign next Sunday with a high-profile clash away to Manchester United at Old Trafford, kicking off at 4:30 p.m.
