ARSENAL’s 2-0 victory over Lyon in the Emirates Cup ended in widespread confusion.
A pre-arranged feature at full-time was abruptly SCRAPPED as fans stayed behind to watch.
Exhibition penalty shoot-outs have been the general protocol in all of Mikel Arteta’s preseason fixtures this summer, with many citing the need to entertain the American crowds during their USA tour.
And this promised to be no different, with supporters already having been told to stay behind and cheer on the takers no matter the full-time score.
The Emirates voice-over even announced at the final whistle that the penalties – which have zero bearing on the result – will go ahead.
But after all the build-up, the shoot-out was surprisingly ditched.
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Midway through the match, French side Lyon decided that they did not want to take part in the contest.
Boos rung around the ground as the bad news was broken to supporters, who were now doomed to face large crowds heading for the tube.
Never mind the glorious weather, the brilliant attacking football, the opportunity to see international stars, new signings and future talent, the fans felt cheated by the news.
And supporters there and at home were quick to call-out the error.
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One wrote: “Weird last minute change to Emirates cup match. The promised penalty shoot-out was cancelled. Online references now deleted. Why?”
While another said: “Arsenal have always done a shootout. Why have they stopped it at the last minute?”
The Gunners lost 4-3 in their jovial penalty shootout against Manchester United after they beat Erik ten Hag’s side 2-1 in LA last month.
Meanwhile, they beat Bournemouth in spot kicks after the two sides drew 1-1 after 90 minutes.
After the Lyon game, Arsenal’s players did a lap of honour before lifting the Emirates Cup in North London.
Martin Odegaard collected the trophy and sheepishly lifted it alongside his bemused teammates, who have their eyes set on the Premier League title this season.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
