Arsenal vs Real Betis as defensive issues overshadow pre-season defeat

Arsenal's pre-season preparations suffered a setback as defensive mistakes proved costly in a 3-1 defeat to Real Betis in Dublin.

Mikel Arteta named an unchanged starting XI following the weekend victory over Girona, but the Gunners were punished for a series of errors before half-time as Manuel Pellegrini's side established a commanding lead.

Although Arsenal improved after the break, they struggled to threaten a comeback and finished the evening with more questions than answers ahead of Sunday's Emirates Cup clash with Borussia Dortmund.

Arsenal started brightly and should have taken an early lead when Viktor Gyökeres was denied from close range by Álvaro Valles.

Instead, Real Betis struck first after Kepa Arrizabalaga failed to deal with a corner, allowing Rodrigo Riquelme to finish unmarked at the back post.

The Spanish side doubled their advantage moments later when Nelson Deossa was given too much space outside the penalty area before firing an unstoppable strike into the top corner.

Arsenal briefly reduced the deficit through Piero Hincapié, who capitalised on a mistake from Valles at a corner, but another defensive lapse allowed Pablo Fornals to restore Betis' two-goal cushion before half-time after Kai Havertz lost possession in midfield.

The second half offered little improvement for Arteta's side.

While Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli both returned to action after the interval, Arsenal failed to create sustained pressure as Betis comfortably managed the game.

In fact, the Spanish side looked more likely to add to their lead, with Isco and Riquelme both threatening on the counter-attack.

Arsenal's evening was also overshadowed by an injury concern after youngster Louie Copley appeared to suffer a serious problem when his studs became caught in the turf.

Arsenal will look to respond when they host Borussia Dortmund in the Emirates Cup on Sunday. Arteta is expected to continue fine-tuning his squad, with defensive organisation likely to be a key focus following another disappointing display at the back.