Our under-16s came from behind to defeat Aston Villa 2-1 and win the Premier League U16 National Finals at St George's Park.
Having defeated Sheffield United, Bournemouth and Crystal Palace to advance from the regional qualifiers, Michael Donaldson's side took on Blackburn Rovers for a place in the showpiece event.
Emerson Nwaneri, brother of first-team star Ethan, was in sparkling form as he netted twice, set up by Jayden Oba. Joshua Sesay then capped off a flowing team move to set up a final against Aston Villa.
After falling behind in the final to the Villans, 15-year-old Mikael Yetna’s superb strike levelled the scores to set up a grandstand finish.
Nwaneri provided the crucial moment as he converted his second spot kick of the tournament to seal the win and clinch the national title.
Following the triumph, head coach Donaldson said: “I’m so pleased to see the boys perform this way. A few weeks ago we qualified as one of only four teams out of 32 from the regional stages, which was a huge learning experience for the players. These tournaments test how to win, how to adapt to different playing styles, and how to perform in intense moments. This was certainly a competition where we showed how to win under pressure.
“Many of the boys are going through scholarship decisions and GCSEs, so it is a real credit to them, their parents and our staff for ensuring they are ready to make lifelong memories like this. We even fielded several under-15s and an under-14, showing our commitment to continually pushing our young players as normal at Hale End.
The under-16 head coach added: “I’d like to thank all the players and staff who have been part of this journey. Football can take people on different paths at this stage of their careers, but I hope every one of them leaves or continues with Arsenal, carrying amazing memories of this success.”
Our full squad to win the finals: Charlie Phillips, Johanan Lo-Tutula, Mishel Nduka, Jaden Oba, Hakeem Abubaka, Emerson Nwaneri, Elyon Mbala, Theo Odaji-Ukueku, Angelinou Pedro (captain), Zach Van Der Straaten, Jaden Maghoma, Mikael Bonaventura Yetna, Jack Tomlin, Buster Morgan, Nefeye Osazee, Kal Meron, Charlie Purdy, Joshua Sesay, Luis Munoz, Fletcher McBryde.
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