Arsenal 1 Chelsea 0 (4-2 on agg): Mikel Arteta’s side reach first final for six years
Arsenal secured their place in the Carabao Cup final after a 1-0 aggregate victory over Chelsea, marking their first final appearance in six years.
Kai Havertz, playing against his former club, scored a late goal to secure the win. Despite Arsenal's 3-2 victory in the first leg, the game was relatively uneventful until Havertz's decisive strike. This result gives Arsenal a chance at their first silverware since the 2020 FA Cup, and they are also leading the Premier League, in the Champions League round of 16, and in the FA Cup's fourth round.
For Chelsea, Liam Rosenior's back five formation stifled the game in the first half, limiting their own attacking threat. However, the introduction of Cole Palmer and Estevao in the second half increased their energy and shot count, but it was too late to turn the tide.
Arsenal will face either Manchester City or Newcastle United in the final at Wembley on March 22. This final could be a full-circle moment for Arteta, who was part of Pep Guardiola's coaching staff when they faced each other in the 2018 FA Cup final. It also provides an opportunity for Arsenal to avenge past defeats in the competition, last won in 1993.
Art de Roche and Cerys Jones discuss the key talking points from the Emirates, including the effectiveness of Rosenior's formation change and the performance of Noni Madueke as a Saka understudy.
Arteta expressed his happiness and satisfaction with the team's performance, praising the crowd's energy and belief. He highlighted the importance of the shared experience of cup final appearances for the team.
Rosenior, on the other hand, acknowledged the criticism he has faced for his gameplan, stating that it's a reality of his job to be criticized when results don't go their way. He praised his team's ability to adapt tactically and flexibly, showing promise for future matches.
