Gunners End Semi-Final Hoodoo with Tense Victory
Arsenal sealed their first Carabao Cup final appearance in over three decades after substitute Kai Havertz delivered a dramatic injury-time winner against former club Chelsea. The 4-2 aggregate victory sparked widespread celebration at Emirates Stadium as the hosts overcame persistent pressure from their London rivals.
Cagey Encounter Decided by Late Drama
Following a 3-2 first-leg advantage, Arsenal adopted a conservative approach that saw Chelsea dominate possession for extended periods. The visitors nearly capitalized on defensive errors, with William Saliba’s early miscue gifting Liam Delap a scoring opportunity that went wide. Chelsea’s tactical shift to a back-three formation initially disrupted Arsenal’s rhythm, limiting the hosts to half-chances throughout the opening period.
Second Half Substitutions Shift Momentum
As tensions escalated with both managers receiving warnings from officials, Chelsea intensified their attack following the 60th-minute introductions of Cole Palmer and Estevão. The tactical adjustment nearly paid dividends when Marc Cucurella and the Brazilian teenager fired threatening efforts just wide of the target.
Arsenal’s breakthrough came in added time when Havertz capitalized on defensive confusion, rounding goalkeeper Robert Sánchez to secure the decisive goal. The strike extinguished Chelsea’s hopes after Wesley Fofana had volleyed wide from a promising position moments earlier.
Historical Significance and Final Implications
This victory marks Arsenal’s first League Cup final appearance since 1993, ending a run of four consecutive semi-final defeats. The result also keeps alive their pursuit of a first domestic trophy since 2020. Potential opponents include title rivals Manchester City, setting up the possibility of a high-stakes Wembley showdown.
Both sides fielded altered lineups with notable absentees including Martin Ødegaard (muscle injury) and Reece James (failed fitness test). Chelsea’s experimental formation ultimately couldn’t prevent their elimination, despite showing promising adaptability during the match.
