Arsenal fans are jubilant as their team secured a spot in the Carabao Cup final, marking their first final appearance in six years. The Gunners overcame Chelsea with a 1-0 victory in the second leg of their semi-final clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, sealing a 4-2 aggregate win.
The decisive goal came late in stoppage time when substitute Kai Havertz, a former Chelsea player, found the back of the net. The atmosphere at the Emirates was electric, a stark contrast to the nervousness that had plagued the team during a recent goalless draw with Liverpool and a defeat to Manchester United. Manager Mikel Arteta lauded the "magical night" and the transformative energy of the crowd. "It's the best vitamins we can put in our bodies," Arteta said, emphasizing the significance of the victory amidst a demanding schedule. "The fact that we worked so hard to achieve this moment and to have this moment together, it's just magical. You can see the joy, the smiles, the energy in the dressing room". He also acknowledged the crowd's crucial role, stating, "They brought so much energy and belief to the team in different moments when it was very much needed".
Arsenal's journey to the final hasn't been without its challenges. The team was missing key players, including captain Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka. Odegaard was sidelined with a minor issue, while Saka was ruled out after sustaining an injury during the warm-up of the previous match against Leeds. However, the team displayed resilience and depth, with players like Noni Madueke stepping up.
The victory against Chelsea follows a dominant 4-0 win against Leeds United, a result that seemed to restore the confidence that propelled Arsenal to the top of the Premier League earlier in the season. That win ended a three-game winless run in the Premier League and sent the team six points clear.
Arsenal will now face either Manchester City or Newcastle United in the final at Wembley on March 22. Manchester City holds a 2-0 advantage over Newcastle heading into the second leg of their semi-final. This final appearance offers Arsenal a chance to end a trophy drought dating back to the 2020 FA Cup. It also marks a significant milestone for Arteta, potentially his first silverware since taking charge in December 2019.
Despite Arsenal's strong performance this season, they have faced criticism regarding their reliance on goals from set-pieces. However, Arteta has passionately defended the team's style of play. The Arsenal manager said he has a massive book of people who feel his side are the "most exciting in Europe".
Arsenal's confirmed starting XI against Chelsea included Kepa Arrizabalaga, Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Piero Hincapie, Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, and Viktor Gyokeres. The substitutes were David Raya, Cristhian Mosquera, Ben White, Gabriel Jesus, Christian Norgaard, Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz, Riccardo Calafiori and Myles Lewis-Skelly. The match was broadcasted live on Sky Sports and ITV.
As the Gunners look forward to the final, the atmosphere surrounding the club is one of palpable excitement and renewed belief. The prospect of lifting a trophy at Wembley is fueling their determination as they continue to compete on multiple fronts, including the Premier League and the Champions League.