Arsenal’s friendly with Lyon ends in confusion with pre-season protocol SCRAPPED minutes beforehand

ARSENAL’s 2-0 victory over Lyon in the Emirates Cup ended in widespread confusion.

The pre-arranged penalty shoot-out at full-time was abruptly SCRAPPED as fans stayed behind to watch.

AlamyArsenal players and fans were left perplexed after the penalties were cancelled[/caption]

GettyMartin Odegaard was ready to take his spot-kick[/caption]

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 aware 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.

Football London reported that Lyon decided midway through the match that they did not want to take part in one. 

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 must have felt cheated by the news.

And supporters there and at home were quick to call-out the error.

FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS

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 to Manchester United after they beat Erik ten Hag‘s side 2-1 in LA last month.

Meanwhile, they beat Bournemouth in the spot-kicks after the two sides drew 1-1 after 90 minutes.

After the Lyon game, Arsenal 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.

Pre-season done

A big campaign awaits pic.twitter.com/oZrHI8czu9

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 11, 2024

Arsenal have a tricky start to the season