Arsenal showcased their dominance, securing a resounding 5-0 victory against the Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star team in a pre-season friendly at Audi Field on Wednesday. The match saw Declan Rice making his Arsenal debut, while Kai Havertz scored his first goal for the Gunners after his move from London rivals Chelsea last month.
Rice, the record-breaking signing from West Ham United, was introduced from the bench in the 65th minute to a roaring applause from the overwhelmingly Arsenal-supporting crowd. His arrival on the pitch was eagerly anticipated, given his status as the most expensive British player in history, following a reported £105 million transfer ($137.5 million, 122.4 million euros).
German talent Havertz, who joined Arsenal recently, was brought on in the second half and showcased his skills by scoring the fifth and final goal in the 89th minute.
Arsenal started their pre-season tour of the United States in style, with Gabriel Jesus netting a brilliant chip just five minutes into the game. The move was initiated by Jorginho's precise pass to Bukayo Saka, who then set up Jesus for a perfectly placed finish off the far post.
Despite a brief opportunity for the MLS team, coached by D.C. United manager Wayne Rooney, to respond quickly, the former Liverpool forward Christian Benteke squandered the chance by mis-controlling the ball inside the box.
Saka continued to be a pivotal player for Arsenal, as he played a key role in their second goal, assisting Leandro Trossard in the 23rd minute. The Belgian forward found space and unleashed a superb strike to extend Arsenal's lead.
Rooney's MLS All-Star team struggled to find their footing, with the Gunners dominating proceedings. A harsh handball decision against St. Louis City defender Tim Parker led to Jorginho converting from the spot, securing Arsenal's third goal and dampening any hopes of a comeback from the MLS side.
Although there were concerns when Trossard limped off with an injury, Gabriel Martinelli, his replacement, made an immediate impact by scoring Arsenal's fourth goal. Martin Odegaard initiated the play with a precise pass to the Brazilian winger, who confidently buried his shot in the bottom corner.
Kai Havertz put the icing on the cake for Arsenal with a late goal in the final minute. Skillfully chesting down a Marquinhos cross, the German attacker made no mistake in confidently drilling the ball home.
Reflecting on the match, Bukayo Saka praised the new signings, stating that they swiftly gelled with the team and showcased their potential on the pitch.
(With inputs from AFP)
