Arsenal secured their place in the 2025-26 Carabao Cup final following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium. This result, which took place on February 3, 2026, allowed the Gunners to progress with a 4-2 aggregate score, having already secured a 3-2 win in the first leg at Stamford Bridge. The match remained tense and scoreless for the vast majority of play, characterized by tactical discipline rather than open attacking football. The breakthrough finally arrived in the seventh minute of added time. As Chelsea committed men forward in a desperate search for an equalizer, Arsenal launched a clinical counter-attack. Declan Rice carried the ball forward and played a pass to Kai Havertz, who rounded Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez with ease to score against his former club.The victory was a testament to Arsenal's defensive organization. Despite Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior introducing creative talents like Cole Palmer and Estevao in the second half, the Blues were unable to fashion genuine scoring opportunities. Chelsea's performance was hindered by several absences, including injuries to Jamie Gittens, Reece James, and Pedro Neto. Arsenal also faced significant injury challenges, playing without Bukayo Saka, who was dealing with a muscle niggle, and captain Martin Odegaard. Mikel Merino was also missing as he prepared for surgery on a foot injury.Mikel Arteta praised his team's resilience and the atmosphere provided by the home supporters. For Arsenal, reaching the final is a significant milestone, marking their first appearance in the League Cup showpiece since 2018. They will be looking to lift the trophy for the first time since 1993. The Gunners remain in contention for multiple trophies this season, maintaining their pursuit of the Premier League title and success in other knockout competitions.The Carabao Cup final is set to take place at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, March 22, 2026. Arsenal will face either Manchester City or Newcastle United, with the former holding a 2-0 lead going into their own semi-final second leg. For Chelsea, the loss was a disappointment, but Rosenior noted improvements in the team's application and focus since his arrival. While the Blues turn their attention back to the Premier League, Arsenal fans are looking forward to a chance at silverware in March. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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