Arsenal reached the League Cup final for the first time in eight years after a narrow win over Chelsea on Tuesday.
Substitute Kai Havertz scored late to give Arsenal a 1-0 victory in the second leg of the semi-final at the Emirates Stadium. The result sealed a 4-2 aggregate win.
Arsenal had taken control of the tie in the first leg. They stayed patient and finished the job at home. The win ended a long wait after several semi-final exits in recent years.
This will be Arsenal’s first final in six years. They will face either Manchester City or Newcastle United at Wembley on March 22. City hold a 2-0 lead ahead of the second leg.
Arsenal last won the League Cup in 1993. They lost their last three finals in the competition.
Now they have a chance to lift their first trophy since the 2020 FA Cup. That remains the only silverware won by Mikel Arteta since he took charge in December 2019.
“We knew it would be a real battle,” Arteta said. “The team showed resilience and clarity. The atmosphere was special. We have waited years for this moment and we will enjoy it.”
Arsenal are enjoying a strong season. They sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League and reached the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League after winning all eight group matches.
Some critics have questioned Arsenal’s style and their reliance on set pieces. Arteta defended his team this week and said many people believe his side are among the most exciting in Europe. Tuesday’s tense win may not change opinions, but it took Arsenal to Wembley.
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior came into the tie in good form. He had won six of his seven matches since taking over. Arsenal handed him the only two defeats of his short spell.
“Arsenal knew they were in a game,” Rosenior said. “We controlled parts of the second half but lacked that key moment. It hurts, but I see progress from the first leg to the second.”
Arsenal played without captain Martin Odegaard and winger Bukayo Saka. Both were injured. The hosts were not at their best but stayed disciplined.
Chelsea switched to a back three and slowed the game in a scrappy first half. Heavy rain made conditions difficult. Chances were rare for both sides.
Chelsea managed their first shot on target late in the half. Arsenal threatened on the break but lacked sharpness.
Rosenior changed shape after the hour mark and sent on fresh attackers. Chelsea pushed forward but could not sustain the pressure.
In stoppage time, Arsenal struck. Havertz broke clear on the counter. He rounded the keeper and rolled the ball into an empty net to seal the win.
