Arsenal are back in the limelight, reaching a major tournament final for the first time in six years. Riding a superb run of form this season, Mikel Arteta’s side overcame Chelsea in the EFL Cup semi-finals, securing a 1-0 victory in the second leg on Tuesday night and a 4-2 aggregate triumph.
The decisive goal came in stoppage time at the Emirates Stadium, scored by German forward Kai Havertz. The goal, against his former club, confirmed Arsenal’s place in next month’s final at Wembley Stadium.
Despite losing the first leg at home, Chelsea applied periods of pressure during Tuesday’s match, attempting to claw back the deficit. However, the visitors struggled to create meaningful goal-scoring opportunities against a resolute Arsenal defence.
Arsenal’s first significant chance came in the 18th minute when Piero Hincapié tested Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez with a long-range effort. Chelsea adopted a defensive setup with five players at the back, aiming to frustrate Arsenal’s attacks.
After half-time, Arsenal largely controlled possession and dictated the pace, though the one-goal cushion ensured the contest remained tense. Chelsea tried to respond with counter-attacks, introducing Cole Palmer and Estêvão, yet they were unable to find the net.
Arsenal briefly showed signs of nerves in the closing stages, but Declan Rice helped calm his teammates and maintain composure. In the 76th minute, Gabriel came close with a header, but Marc Cucurella cleared the danger. Ultimately, the match was settled in added time, with Rice providing the assist for Havertz, who coolly finished past the goalkeeper.
This victory keeps Arsenal’s hopes of lifting their third EFL Cup alive, following previous triumphs in 1987 and 1993. Their opponents in the final will be determined by the outcome of the Manchester City vs Newcastle United semi-final, where City currently lead 2-0 from the first leg.
It is also Arsenal’s closest approach to a major trophy since their 2020 FA Cup success, signalling a potential turning point in Arteta’s tenure and offering hope to fans eager for silverware.
EFL Cup Semi-Final 2026: Arsenal vs Chelsea (Aggregate)
| Leg | Venue | Score | Goalscorer (Arsenal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stamford Bridge | 2-2 | – |
| 2 | Emirates Stadium | 1-0 | Kai Havertz |
| Aggregate | – | 4-2 | – |
Arsenal’s march to the final highlights their attacking flair, tactical discipline, and resilience under pressure, setting up a tantalising showdown at Wembley in what promises to be a thrilling climax to the competition.
