Arsene Wenger finally got one over on Jose Mourinho as Arsenal beat Chelsea 1-0 this afternoon to lift the Community Shield at Wembley.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s first-half strike separated the London clubs as Wenger was victorious over his fierce rival for the first time in 14 attempts.
The Frenchman raced down the tunnel at full time, opting not to shake the hand of his counterpart after landing a big psychological blow ahead of the Premier League season.
The opening 20 minutes was played at a fast pace, but was devoid of goalmouth action. Theo Walcott, being used as a central striker, flicked a tame header at Thibaut Courtois with the game’s first chance.
Walcott was quickly setting up England teammate Oxlade-Chamberlain for his 24th-minute strike. The midfielder cut inside Cesar Azpilicueta from the right and thumped a left-footed shot into the top corner.
Ramires had a couple of chances to equalise for the Blues prior to half time, curling wide of the post before heading a Willian cross over the bar from all of five yards out.
Striker Diego Costa was missing for the champions because of a hamstring problem, and Loic Remy struggled to lead the line in his absence. Summer signing Radamel Falcao was introduced at the break.
The Colombian showed a determination to make an impression, but passed up his only half-chance when his delay in getting a shot away allowed Laurent Koscielny to make a good recovery and clear the danger.
Chelsea’s best opportunity fell to Eden Hazard, who uncharacteristically lacked composure after being beautifully played in on goal by Cesc Fabregas, and blazed high into the stands on 63 minutes.
Petr Cech, playing against the Blues for the first time since his switch to Arsenal in June, kept out an Oscar free-kick and dominated his box late on as the Gunners held off the minimal Chelsea pressure.
Arsenal collected their third piece of pre-season silverware, after the Barclays Premier League Asia Trophy and their own Emirates Cup, but a Community Shield winner has not won the title since 2010.
SEE MORE:
Oxlade-Chamberlain goal: Midfielder thumps Arsenal ahead against Chelsea in Community Shield
Chelsea squad numbers: Radamel Falcao to take No.9, Juan Cuadrado changed
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