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Manchester City’s 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the 2026 Carabao Cup final may have been decided by Nico O’Reilly’s clinical brace, but Sunday Oliseh believes the real story lies in the creative brilliance that powered the performance at Wembley, Footynaija reports.
O’Reilly’s quick-fire goals early in the second half ultimately sealed City’s ninth League Cup title, yet the former Super Eagles coach pointed instead to the influence of Jérémy Doku, Rayan Cherki and Bernardo Silva as the decisive factor in the contest.
“Big statement made by Manchester City to win the Carabao Cup. Man City’s creative players and ball jogglers like Doku, Chekhi, Bernardo Silva made the difference,” Oliseh said at the end of the encounter.
Highlights from our historic League Cup win over Arsenal 🏆📺 pic.twitter.com/ApAvQ4deKh
— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 23, 2026
For much of the first half, Arsenal held firm with their structured pressing and positional discipline. However, the game shifted dramatically after the break as City’s technical attackers began to exploit space and isolate defenders in one-on-one situations.
“Arsenal’s system relies on positional discipline and high-intensity pressing, City countered in the second half with these high-frequency dribblers to create 1v1 isolations that broke Arsenal’s low block,” Oliseh added.
Cherki was central to that transformation, drifting into pockets of space and delivering the cross that led to the opening goal, while also initiating the move for the second. Silva, captaining the side, provided relentless energy, pressing aggressively and knitting play together in midfield. On the flank, Doku’s direct running stretched Arsenal’s defensive line and forced them into retreat, gradually tilting the balance of the game.
The trophy’s coming to Manchester 💼🏆 pic.twitter.com/WJTzInP9O5
— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 22, 2026
“Total domination by Manchester City of the second half though,” Oliseh noted.
Despite the disappointment, Oliseh suggested Arsenal still have reasons for optimism as the season progresses.
“Arsenal can take solace in the near certainty that they should win the Premier league trophy, or won’t they?“
The Gunners boast a nine-point advantage over Manchester City with only eight Premier League games left this season.
