Arsenal suffer first pre-season defeat as Kepa errors cost them in Dublin

Arsenal’s first pre-season defeat came in a 3-1 loss to Real Betis in Dublin, as two costly mistakes by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga helped the Spanish side to a comfortable first-half win. Kepa failed to claim a corner in the ninth minute, allowing Rodrigo Riquelme to score at the far post, then spilled a clearance that led to Nelson Deossa’s stunning long-range second.

Piero Hincapie briefly gave Arsenal hope with a header from a Christos Tzolis corner, but Pablo Fornals restored Betis’ two-goal cushion before half-time after Kai Havertz gave the ball away cheaply near his own box. The second half, featuring seven changes and first cameos for returning Brazilians Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli, was disjointed and produced little momentum for the Gunners.

Mikel Arteta admitted Arsenal did not compete to their standards, especially around their own box, and said the sloppy defending and giveaways were not acceptable even in a friendly. He added that losing in pre-season can create “fire in the belly” and that it is better to expose these issues now than in a competitive match.

The match also highlighted why Arsenal are still pushing for more midfield reinforcement. With Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and others yet to return, the Gunners’ midfield looked vulnerable, and Myles Lewis-Skelly’s 70-of-74 passing was not enough to cover the defensive gaps. Reports say Arsenal have agreed a £75m fee with Newcastle for Bruno Guimaraes, which would add the elite quality and depth Arteta feels is missing.

A serious-looking knee injury to teenager Louie Copley was another negative note on an otherwise useful fitness session. Arsenal will now return to London to prepare for the Emirates Cup against Borussia Dortmund, with the Dublin defeat offering a clear reminder of the work still to be done before the new Premier League season.