Arsenal eased to a 5-0 win in the MLS All-Star clash with Kai Havertz silencing his critics by getting on the score sheet.
Club-record signing Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber made their debuts in the rout as the Gunners showed why they are Premier League title contenders.
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It was a five-star display from Mikel Arteta’s side, who have now inflicted a second defeat on the MLS All-Stars in as many days.
Arsenal beat their American counterparts in the MLS All-Star Skills challenge on Wednesday, which left Havertz in the spotlight.
The versatile German had dazzled in the touch challenge, before coming under scrutiny from fans after drawing a blank in the cross and volley drill.
But he responded to the criticism in the perfect fashion by scoring a fine goal in the 89th minute to complete the scoring.
Controlling Marquinhos’ cross expertly with his chest, the 24-year-old then hammered home a half volley into the near post.
The north Londoners never looked in trouble at a packed Audi Field in front of 20,621 fans – a record attendance at the stadium.
Gabriel Jesus broke the deadlock in the fifth minute with an audacious chip from the edge of the box.
Leandro Trossard then doubled the visitors’ lead with another stunning strike, as he lashed the ball home into the top corner from around 20 yards out.
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It was 3-0 to Arsenal just two minutes after the break, as Jorginho converted a penalty into the bottom right corner.
Gabriel Martinelli then added to Arsenal’s tally in the 84th minute after latching onto an expert Martin Odegaard through ball.
It was goal that was almost identical to his strike away at Brighton on New Year’s Eve.
A sweeping pass from deep inside Arsenal’s half set Martinelli racing clear on goal, with the Brazilian winger coolly slotting the ball into the far corner.
And substitute Havertz then sealed the win with Arteta hoping it is a sign of things to come from the ex-Bayer Leverkusen star.
Speaking after the match, Arteta confirmed that Havertz has been brought in as a midfielder, rather than as a centre-forward where he played at Stamford Bridge.
He said: “For now he’s playing the attacking midfielder position, but I’m sure throughout the games we’ll have a chance to use him in different positions.”
As for the reception his players received, Arteta remarked: “It was a great occasion. It was great to see so many Arsenal supporters filling the stadium.
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“Really pleased at the end result. It’s great to see that whatever city you are in, you get a lot of support.
“It’s great for the boys to realise how privileged they are to represent this football club.”
