Football fans across the UK are eagerly anticipating a thrilling London derby as Arsenal host Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg. This high-stakes clash will determine which team advances to the final, with Arsenal holding a slender advantage from the first leg.
Match Details and Broadcast Information
The crucial encounter is scheduled for Tuesday, 3 February 2026, with kick-off at 8pm GMT. The match will be held at Arsenal's home ground, the Emirates Stadium in London, promising an electric atmosphere under the lights.
How to Watch the Carabao Cup Semi-Final
For viewers in the United Kingdom, comprehensive coverage will be available across multiple platforms. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and ITV1, ensuring widespread accessibility for football enthusiasts.
Additionally, streaming options include Sky Go for subscribers and ITVX, providing flexibility for those preferring to watch on digital devices. This multi-platform approach guarantees that fans won't miss a moment of this pivotal cup tie.
Team News and Injury Updates
Arsenal's Squad Situation
Mikel Arteta's Arsenal face some selection challenges ahead of this crucial fixture. The Gunners will be without Mikel Merino, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to injury.
Further concerns include Bukayo Saka, who remains a doubt for the match, while Max Dowman continues his recovery from an ankle problem. Despite these setbacks, Arsenal demonstrated their resilience with a convincing victory over Leeds United in their previous outing.
Chelsea's Team Selection
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has both opportunities and obstacles in his squad selection. Joao Pedro and Marc Cucurella are likely to earn starting positions after making significant impacts as substitutes against West Ham United.
However, the Blues contend with several absentees including Tosin Adarabioyo, Romeo Lavia, and Jamie Gittens due to injuries. Levi Colwill remains sidelined with a long-term issue, while Estevao is unavailable on compassionate leave.
Predicted Starting Line-Ups
Based on current form and available personnel, the anticipated team selections are as follows:
Arsenal Predicted XI: Arrizabalaga; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard; Madueke, Gyokeres, Martinelli.
Chelsea Predicted XI: Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Fofana, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Joao Pedro.
Match Context and Stakes
Arsenal enter this fixture with a narrow 3-2 aggregate lead from the first leg at Stamford Bridge, though Alejandro Garnacho's brace in that match ensures Chelsea remain firmly in contention. The Gunners' formidable home record suffered a recent setback with a defeat to Manchester United, but their emphatic response against Leeds suggests they've regained momentum.
This match carries significant implications for both clubs' seasons. Arsenal continue to pursue multiple trophies, while Chelsea aim to overturn the deficit and secure a place in the Carabao Cup final. With local pride and silverware aspirations on the line, this promises to be a captivating encounter between two of London's football giants.
