The Emirates Stadium witnessed footballing drama at its finest as Arsenal defeated Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate in the Carabao Cup semi-final, securing a final berth absent from their calendar since 2017. Kai Havertz stole the spotlight, netting a crucial late goal as a substitute to break Chelsea hearts.
Arsenal carried a 3-2 advantage from the first leg, powered by Viktor Gyokeres, Ben White, and Martin Zubimendi. They asserted dominance immediately in the return fixture, holding the ball and probing patiently against a compact Chelsea unit.
Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea fortified with five at the back, leading to a cagey opening hour bereft of breakthroughs. Efforts to unlock the game via Estevao and Cole Palmer faltered against Arsenal’s steely rearguard.
Tension peaked as Chelsea surged late, exposing vulnerabilities. Arsenal capitalized ruthlessly: Havertz, back from injury, glided past Robert Sanchez with finesse and slotted home. The stadium shook with joy.
Now, Arsenal eye silverware in the final against Manchester City or Newcastle’s semi-final victors. This success fuels their Premier League charge – Sunderland awaits at the Emirates, then Brentford on the road. A new chapter beckons for the Gunners.