Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Arsenal vs Athletic Club: Gunners Win Emirates Cup Final as Viktor Gyokeres Nets Debut Goal

Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Arsenal capped off their 2025 pre-season with a commanding 3-0 win against Athletic Club in the Emirates Cup final at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, August 9. This win marked their fourth consecutive win in the annual competition. As a result, it provided them a confidence boost.

Especially ahead of their Premier League opener against Manchester United next weekend. All eyes were on Viktor Gyokeres, the £63.5 million summer signing from Sporting CP. He was also looking to make his mark after a quiet debut against Villarreal.

A great pre-season test 💪

🤝 @emirates pic.twitter.com/Mdhy9TjSuo
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 9, 2025

Gyokeres did just that in the 34th minute. He addressed a precise cross from Martin Zubimendi with a powerful header into the far corner. The goal was particularly significant for the Swedish striker, who had faced questions about his aerial prowess last season.

Just two minutes later, Arsenal doubled their advantage. A slick sequence of one-touch passing between Gyokeres and captain Martin Odegaard freed Gabriel Martinelli on the left. The Brazilian exploited Athletic’s high defensive line.

Also Read: Former Arsenal Midfielder Thomas Partey Joins Villarreal

He then squared for Bukayo Saka, who finished into an empty net. Gyokeres nearly grabbed a second after the break when he met a Noni Madueke delivery. However, his header ricocheted off the post following a fine save from Unai Simon.

Kai Havertz Seals the Deal in Arsenal vs Athletic Club

The match was effectively settled in the 82nd minute when substitute Kai Havertz pounced on a loose ball. He outpaced Adama, and placed a low shot into the far corner for Arsenal’s third. It was a reminder of the German’s ability as he is determined to play a key role this season.

Also Read: Ballon d’Or 2025: Yachine Trophy and Women’s Kopa Trophy Nominees Revealed

Following the final whistle, both teams participated in a pre-arranged penalty shootout for additional practice. Arsenal emerged 6-5 winners. Zubimendi was at the centre of the action once again. He converted the decisive spot-kick after David Raya’s crucial save in sudden death.

The win reassured fans after back-to-back defeats to Tottenham Hotspur and Villarreal had sparked concerns in this pre-season campaign. Arsenal dominated with 59% possession, 10 registered shots (six of them on target), and also restricted Athletic to just two efforts all game.

Arsenal

Arsenal vs Athletic Club

Athletic Club

Emirates Cup

Viktor Gyokeres

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.