Kathmandu, Feb 3: After nearly six years and four semi-final disappointments, Arsenal have booked their place in the Carabao Cup final by defeating Chelsea 4–2 on aggregate.
This will be Arsenal’s first final under head coach Mikel Arteta since he guided the club to FA Cup glory in 2020, and only the second major final of his tenure.
Although the match was tight, tense and at times dull, late drama arrived when Kai Havertz scored to seal Arsenal’s place at Wembley, sparking jubilation among players and fans at the Emirates Stadium.
In a game where both teams managed only two shots on target each, Arsenal rarely looked under pressure.
With this result, Arsenal will contest their ninth EFL Cup final, where they will face either Manchester City or Newcastle on Sunday, March 22.
If they meet Manchester City, it will be a repeat of the 2018 final, which City won when Arteta was part of manager Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff.
For Arsenal, the final offers not only a chance to avenge that defeat but also an opportunity to win their first League Cup in 33 years.
Speaking after the match, Arteta said, “There was a special atmosphere inside the stadium today. It makes such a difference. We have been waiting for a few years to get into this position, and we will certainly enjoy the final. You can see the happiness, the smiles, the energy and the positivity inside the club.” #arsenal #chelsea (Agencies)
Photo: AP/RSS
