By Martin Graham
Arsenal’s recent history in knockout ties has offered little encouragement, particularly at the semi-final stage. Under Mikel Arteta, progress at this point of competitions has often ended in frustration rather than celebration.
That narrative shifted on Wednesday night as the North London side claimed a 3-2 away victory over Chelsea in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. The result puts them one match away from reaching a major domestic final for the first time since lifting the FA Cup in 2020.
Having failed to win any leg of their previous four two-legged semi-finals and managing only two goals across those ties, Arsenal now return to Emirates Stadium on 3 February as strong favourites to finally overcome that psychological hurdle.
Arteta’s side showing consistency and control
The win at Stamford Bridge underlined a campaign that has already delivered sustained excellence. Arsenal currently sit top of both the Premier League and the Champions League league phase, while also advancing to the fourth round of the FA Cup.
This semi-final was their 32nd fixture of the season, and defeat has arrived on just two occasions, both on the road in league matches against Liverpool and Aston Villa. Such reliability has become a defining feature of Arteta’s squad.
Despite the advantage gained, there was a sense within the camp that the margin should have been greater. After establishing a 3-1 lead during a dominant spell, Arsenal passed up two clear opportunities that could have left the tie virtually settled before the return match.
Arteta acknowledged that frustration, noting how a late Chelsea corner led to a goal that changed the complexion of the evening. While satisfied with the overall display, he admitted the closing stages prevented the performance from feeling complete.
Gyokeres delivers timely response amid scrutiny
Viktor Gyokeres’ contribution was one of the night’s most encouraging developments. Since his £64m move from Sporting, the Swedish striker has struggled to match the prolific standards that defined his previous club career.
Before this match, his only recent success had come from the penalty spot against Everton, with no open-play goals since November. Against Chelsea, however, he rediscovered the sharpness and authority that brought him 97 goals in 102 appearances in Portugal.
Beyond finding the net himself, Gyokeres also set up Martin Zubimendi for Arsenal’s third goal, underlining his influence across the attacking phase. The forward stressed the importance of maintaining focus ahead of the second leg, despite the advantage secured.
He also highlighted Arsenal’s defensive discipline against Chelsea’s counter-attacking threat, while conceding that allowing two goals was not ideal, even in victory.
Advantage gained, but standards remain high
Arsenal twice held a two-goal cushion during the match, yet failed to preserve it on both occasions. Alejandro Garnacho’s brace ensured Chelsea remain within touching distance heading into the return fixture.
Ben White admitted that the second-half display fell short of expectations, with lapses in control inviting unnecessary pressure. Still, he emphasised that securing a win away from home in a semi-final remains a valuable outcome.
Arteta, meanwhile, quickly turned his attention to domestic duties. With a Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest looming, the manager stressed the importance of recovery and preparation, reinforcing the routine that has underpinned Arsenal’s strong season so far.
While the tie is not yet decided, Arsenal have placed themselves in a commanding position, with the chance to book a Wembley appearance on 22 March now firmly within reach.
