FC Breakfast: tricky kick-off, unusual penalty shootout

Half-time at the Emirates during the FA Cup meeting between Arsenal and Wigan Athletic produced more drama than many managers would like, as the clubs’ mascots stole the spotlight with an impromptu penalty shoot-out. Gunnersaurus, Arsenal’s long-necked fan favourite, buried three of his spot-kicks while Wigan’s Crusty the Pie could reply only once, leaving the final tally 3-1 in favour of the Londoners. Ever the showman, Gunnersaurus capped the win by re-enacting the Mikel Merino celebration that has become a cult favourite among supporters.

Earlier in the day, nature provided its own highlight in the Australian Women’s First Division, where a powerful gust forced officials to abort the opening kick-off twice before the ball could be played safely. Players and referees shared a sheepish smile as the stadium announcer joked about booking the wind for time-wasting.

Across the continent, Ligue 1+ welcomed Odsonne Édouard for a studio segment and could not resist revisiting the viral moment when Nice’s commentator erupted in ecstatic disbelief after the striker netted against the Aiglons. Édouard laughed off the clip, insisting he had only done “what strikers are paid for,” but admitted the commentary added extra spice to an already sweet memory.

In a brief managerial note buried among the weekend curiosities, one unnamed Premier League outfit is reportedly set to appoint a new coach for the fourth time this season, underlining the relentless churn currently gripping the English top flight.