Arsenal’s defensive problems continued during pre-season as Borussia Dortmund secured a 3-2 victory over the Gunners at the Emirates Stadium to claim the Emirates Cup.
The defeat came just days after Mikel Arteta criticised his side’s defensive display in their loss to Real Betis, saying their performance had fallen below the required standard.
Arsenal once again struggled at the back against Dortmund and went into half-time two goals behind.
Samuele Inacio opened the scoring for the German side before 18-year-old midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas doubled Dortmund’s advantage.
Despite falling behind, Arsenal created several opportunities and could have been on the scoresheet earlier. Viktor Gyokeres came close in the first half when his effort struck the crossbar, while the striker also struggled to make the most of other chances.
The Gunners eventually found a way back into the contest when Ethan Nwaneri reduced the deficit after good build-up play involving Christos Tzolis.
However, Arsenal’s hopes of completing a comeback were dealt another blow when a poorly defended corner presented Joane Gadou with the opportunity to restore Dortmund’s two-goal advantage.
Tzolis continued to impress and later earned Arsenal a penalty after being brought down inside the box.
Gyokeres stepped up to convert from the spot and make it 3-2, giving Arsenal renewed hope of rescuing a result.
The Gunners were unable to find another goal, however, as Dortmund held on to claim victory and lift the Emirates Cup.
The result leaves Arteta with plenty to consider defensively with just seven days remaining before Arsenal face Manchester City in the Community Shield in Cardiff.
Arsenal had introduced new signing Bruno Guimaraes to the Emirates crowd before kick-off, and his arrival could prove timely as Arteta looks to strengthen his midfield and address the team’s defensive
shortcomings before the competitive season begins.
Vanguard News
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