Arsenal Beat Chelsea To Reach Carabao Cup Final
Sports Updated: 04 February 2026 10:17 EAT
Arsenal Squad celebrates after beating Chelsea 1:0 to reach Carabao Cup finale
Arsenal booked their place in the Carabao Cup final after edging out Chelsea in a tense semi-final tie, securing a 1–0 victory in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium. The result saw the Gunners progress 4–2 on aggregate, ensuring a return to Wembley for the first time in several years.
The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time when Kai Havertz rounded Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez to slot home the winning goal. The strike sparked jubilant celebrations among Arsenal fans, capping a disciplined performance from Mikel Arteta’s side.
The first leg at Stamford Bridge had ended 3–2 in Arsenal’s favour, giving the Gunners a slender advantage. Both legs showcased high intensity and close tactical battles, with neither side able to dominate comfortably.
Arsenal displayed greater control and composure throughout the second leg, frustrating Chelsea’s attacking efforts. The home side’s midfield effectively limited opportunities, while their defenders maintained focus against Chelsea’s high pressing game.
Mikel Arteta praised his players for their resilience and focus, highlighting the importance of squad depth and tactical discipline in achieving the win. “It’s a fantastic achievement for the team. The boys showed character and determination,” Arteta said after the match.
The victory ends Arsenal’s recent semi-final frustrations in domestic cup competitions. The club has reached the Carabao Cup final nine times historically but has lifted the trophy only once, in 1993, with several runner-up finishes since then.
Fans and pundits noted the strategic substitutions and game management by Arteta as key to securing the result. The careful handling of the match tempo prevented Chelsea from finding a late equalizer, highlighting the manager’s tactical acumen.
Arsenal will now face either Manchester City or Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final, scheduled for 22 March 2026 at Wembley Stadium. The upcoming match represents a chance for the Gunners to secure their first League Cup in over three decades.
The win also adds momentum to Arsenal’s ongoing campaign across multiple competitions. With strong performances in the Premier League and European tournaments, Arteta’s squad continues to demonstrate ambition and the potential to claim silverware this season.
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FELIX MAKONA
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