Arsenal and Real Betis play preseason friendly in Dublin

Premier League champions Arsenal faced Spanish side Real Betis in a preseason friendly at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, marking the first-ever meeting between the two clubs. The match served as a key part of both teams' preparations for the upcoming season, with Arsenal looking to defend their domestic title and Real Betis preparing for a return to the UEFA Champions League.

The Gunners entered the contest following a 4-1 victory over Girona in Spain just days earlier, a match that saw goals from Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and new signing Christos Tzolis. Young academy prospect Max Dowman also impressed with a goal and an assist. Real Betis, managed by former Premier League-winning coach Manuel Pellegrini, arrived with more match fitness, having already played several preseason fixtures, including a recent 1-0 win over Almeria.

For Arsenal, the fixture was an opportunity to integrate players returning from post-World Cup holidays. Brazilian duo Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli were in contention to make their first appearances of the summer, while players like Havertz, Viktor Gyokeres, and Piero Hincapie were expected to see increased minutes after limited...