Arsenal secured their place in next month's Carabao Cup final with a dramatic 1-0 win over Chelsea in the second leg of their semi-final at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. Kai Havertz scored in the seventh minute of stoppage time to seal a 4-2 aggregate victory, ensuring Arsenal's first trophy since 2020 remains within reach.
Havertz, who spent time on loan at Chelsea earlier in his career, was the hero as he latched onto a counter-attack initiated by Declan Rice. The German forward rounded Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and slid the ball home, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The goal capped a dominant performance from Arsenal, who controlled the tie from the first leg at Stamford Bridge. Mikel Arteta's side were rarely troubled by a Chelsea team that lacked creativity and cohesion, failing to register a single shot on target in the second half. The visitors' attack was described as 'clueless' and 'devoid of intensity', with their best chance coming from a Wesley Fofana header that went wide.
Chelsea's misery was compounded by their inability to break down Arsenal's low block, with crosses and set-pieces offering little threat. Manager Enzo Maresca's side now face a battle to salvage their season, while Arsenal march on to Wembley to face either Manchester City or Newcastle United.
The result means Arsenal remain in contention for honours in all four competitions they entered this season, with the Carabao Cup final offering a chance to end a three-year trophy drought.
