In a pulsating London derby that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Arsenal secured a dramatic 1–0 victory over Chelsea in the second leg of the 2025–26 Carabao Cup semi-final at the Emirates Stadium, booking their place in the final with a 4–2 aggregate win Late Drama at the Emirates The game looked destined for a quiet finish, with both sides struggling to find a breakthrough in a cautious tactical battle. Chelsea, needing to overturn Arsenal’s 3–2 lead from the first leg at
Stamford Bridge, were organised and resolute, frustrating the hosts for much of the night. But the tension finally boiled over deep into stoppage time. In the 97th minute, substitute Kai Havertz a former Chelsea man raced clear on a counterattack, rounded goalkeeper Robert Sánchez and slotted home with ice-cold precision. That moment of brilliance sent the Emirates crowd into raptures and sealed Arsenal’s progression to the final.
Key Match Stats Final Score: Arsenal 1–0 Chelsea (Arsenal win 4–2 on aggregate) Goal Scorer: Kai Havertz (90+7’) Venue: Emirates Stadium, London Chelsea dominated possession and attempted more shots, but Arsenal’s organisation and game management proved decisive Road to the Final This will be Arsenal’s first Carabao Cup final since 2018, and they’re now set to face Manchester City or Newcastle United at Wembley Stadium on 22 March 2026
What This Means for Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta described the victory as “vitamins” for his squad a massive confidence-boosting moment that keeps their hopes alive across multiple competitions this season. Arsenal currently lead the Premier League, remain in the Champions League knockout stages, and are also contesting the FA Cup. Pundit Jamie Redknapp went a step further, suggesting this could be the springboard for Arsenal to secure two or three trophies this season if they maintain their level.
Chelsea’s Fight and Frustration Chelsea fought hard under interim manager Liam Rosenior, deploying innovative tactics and stubbornly defending for long periods. Pundits, including Gary Neville, even praised some of Chelsea’s inventive ideas particularly their corner-time positioning aimed at disrupting Arsenal’s set pieces. Despite the effort, Chelsea couldn’t find the one goal that would have forced extra time. Rash finishing and lack of clear chances ultimately cost them, keeping them out of the final.
DIGI MERCH STORE PRINT ON DEMAND
A Storied Rivalry Arsenal and Chelsea share one of English football’s most compelling rivalries. Over the years, they’ve produced dramatic league battles, cup finals, and tightly contested derbies. Historically, Arsenal edge the head-to-head, but Chelsea have also enjoyed landmark victories, including a 6–0 thrashing of Arsenal at Stamford Bridge back in 2014.
This London derby delivered all the drama its history promised from tactical chess matches to last-gasp heroics. For Arsenal, it’s another step towards ending a long trophy drought and possibly capping a memorable season with silverware. For Chelsea, it’s a night of what-ifs and near-misses, but also encouragement that they can compete with the best under pressure. Whether you’re a Gunners supporter savouring the moment or a Blues fan reflecting on what might have been, this tie will be remembered as yet another classic chapter in this great rivalry.
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