Heart-stopping action unfolded at Arsenal’s fortress, the Emirates, as the Gunners triumphed 4-2 over Chelsea across two legs to reach the Carabao Cup final for the first time in eight years. Sub Kai Havertz delivered the knockout punch with a sublime finish in the final seconds.
A 3-2 first-leg lead, built on goals from Viktor Gyokeres, Ben White, and Martin Zubimendi, set the stage. Arsenal oozed confidence, dictating play and restricting Chelsea’s avenues.
Chelsea countered with a deep, five-strong defensive wall under Liam Rosenior, muting attacks for 60 minutes. Deploying Estevao and Cole Palmer sought dynamism, yet Arsenal’s defenders stood unyielding.
Desperation drove Chelsea forward terminally, inviting counters. Havertz, revitalized post-injury, embodied clutch performance: evading Sanchez effortlessly before burying the chance. Pure elation ensued.
Arsenal’s final opponents emerge from Manchester City-Newcastle on Wednesday. Buoyed, they tackle Sunderland domestically next, trailing Brentford thereafter. Cup fever grips north London anew.