Arsenal faced Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-final at the Emirates Stadium on December 23, 2025. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Gabriel Jesus was ready to start the game, marking his first start since returning from an ACL injury on January 12. This game also marked Jesus's 100th appearance for Arsenal.

Going into the match, Arsenal were in strong form, sitting atop the Premier League and having won their last three competitive games. Crystal Palace, managed by Oliver Glasner, had a mixed domestic record and were looking to continue their "giant-killing spree" in the Carabao Cup.

In the end, Arsenal secured a spot in the semi-finals after a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Crystal Palace. Gabriel Jesus was the star of the show, netting a hat-trick. Jean-Philippe Mateta scored early for Palace, but Jesus equalized in the second half and then put Arsenal ahead. He later secured the win with his third goal. Eddie Nketiah scored a late consolation goal for Crystal Palace.

Arsenal's starting lineup featured Kepa Arrizabalaga in goal, with a defense of Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Riccardo Calafiori, and Myles Lewis-Skelly. The midfield consisted of Mikel Merino, Eberechi Eze, and Christian Norgaard, while Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke flanked Gabriel Jesus in attack. Crystal Palace's lineup included Daniel Benitez in goal, with Eddie Nketiah and Jean-Philippe Mateta leading the attack.

The Gunners have a strong record against Crystal Palace, remaining unbeaten in their last eight encounters. Last year, Arsenal also won against Crystal Palace 3-2 in the Carabao Cup quarter-final, with Gabriel Jesus scoring a hat-trick. Arsenal have won their last two League Cup quarter-final ties and have had a player score a hat-trick in both of those games.

The win means Arsenal will face Chelsea in the two-legged semi-final.