Former Gunner Henry lifts Emirates cup

Press release

Published August 1st, 2011 - 09:54 GMT

Al Bawaba

With the much anticipated Premier League season only a short time away, Emirates Airline, sponsor of Arsenal FC, hosted football fans at the Emirates Cup this weekend at the Gunner’s home ground of Emirates Stadium. Former Arsenal player Thierry Henry, who still holds the record for the most goals scored for the club, was also in attendance—this time as captain of his new team and 2011 tournament champions, the New York Red Bulls.

Along with Stateside competition from the New York side, this year’s tournament also featured Argentinean powerhouse Boca Juniors and Paris Saint Germain in contention to lift the Emirates Cup.

The highlight of the tournament for the sell-out crowd was watching former Gunner legend Henry lead his side out onto the pitch ahead of their match with Arsenal. The Gunners led 1-0 following a goal from Robin van Persie, before a late own goal from Kyle Bartley drew the match level, and ensured that the Stateside team won the Emirates Cup in their first year taking part.

The tournament opened with the New York Red Bulls scoring a 1-0 victory over Paris Saint Germain. Although star player and captain Thierry Henry did not take the pitch for the match, he received a hero’s welcome at Emirates Stadium. Arsenal then took on Boca Juniors, giving up an early 2-0 lead to settle for a 2-2 tie.

The action on the first day set up a thrilling match between Arsenal and the New York Red Bulls on the final day of the tournament.

As the teams were busy delivering action on the field, Emirates was busy off it, encouraging fans to take on the Emirates Destination Challenge to win return flights to Dubai. Hundreds of contestants took part, and everyone who participated – successful or not – received an Emirates - branded giveaway, but those successful across the weekend were entered into a prize draw to win the grand prize of two return flights to Dubai with Emirates.

Emirates distributed branded giveaways to fans throughout the weekend and the airline’s cabin crew assisted Laurie Berryman, Senior Vice President UK and Ireland, in presenting the coveted trophy to the tournament champions, the New York Red Bulls.

Background Information

Emirates Airline

The Emirates story started in 1985 when we launched operations with just two aircraft.

Today, we fly the world’s biggest fleets of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, offering our customers the comforts of the latest and most efficient wide-body aircraft in the skies.

We inspire travelers around the world with our growing network of worldwide destinations, industry leading inflight entertainment, regionally inspired cuisine, and world-class service. Read on to find out more.