In a thrilling EFL Cup semi-final first leg, Arsenal narrowly defeated Chelsea 3-2 at Stamford Bridge. The match showcased significant contributions from both teams, with Alejandro Garnacho playing a pivotal role for Chelsea.
Match Summary
Arsenal opened the scoring early in the seventh minute. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez failed to effectively handle a corner from Declan Rice. This lapse allowed Ben White to head in from close range, giving Arsenal a 1-0 lead.
Just after half-time, Sanchez made another costly error. He allowed a cross to slip through his fingers, enabling Viktor Gyokeres to double Arsenal’s lead to 2-0. Chelsea, however, fought back, with Garnacho netting a goal in the 57th minute from a cross delivered by Pedro Neto.
Key Moments
- 7th Minute: Ben White scores after a corner from Declan Rice.
- 50th Minute: Viktor Gyokeres extends Arsenal’s lead to 2-0.
- 57th Minute: Garnacho pulls one back for Chelsea.
- 65th Minute: Martin Zubimendi restores Arsenal’s two-goal cushion.
- 72nd Minute: Garnacho scores his second goal, narrowing the score to 3-2.
Despite pressure from Chelsea, Arsenal managed to hold onto their lead. Zubimendi’s goal came after a display of skill, as he maneuvered past defenders before finding the net.
Statistics and Records
Arsenal now boasts an impressive record of 18 goals from corners and 24 from set-pieces this season across all competitions. The team remains unbeaten in their last 10 matches.
In contrast, Chelsea’s struggles continue as they have secured only three wins in their past 13 games. New head coach Liam Rosenior faced defeat in his first home match after taking over from Enzo Maresca.
Next Steps
With the second leg of the semi-final scheduled for February 3 at the Emirates Stadium, Chelsea must overcome a one-goal deficit to secure a spot in the final against either Newcastle or Manchester City. This match promises to deliver more excitement as both teams vie for a place in Wembley.
