Arsenal moved a step closer to the Carabao Cup final after securing a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the semi-final first leg. Despite a late Chelsea fightback, the Gunners’ early dominance proved decisive, giving them a narrow but valuable advantage ahead of the return leg at the Emirates Stadium.
The visitors started with greater intensity and were rewarded in the first half when Ben White rose highest to head Arsenal in front from a well-worked set piece. Mikel Arteta’s side controlled possession and tempo, forcing Chelsea to defend deep and limiting their attacking threat for long spells.
Arsenal doubled their lead shortly after the break as Viktor Gyökeres capitalised on a defensive error, finishing calmly to put the Gunners firmly in control. The pressure continued, and the advantage was extended when Martin Zubimendi produced a composed solo effort to make it 3–0, seemingly putting the tie beyond Chelsea’s reach .
However, Chelsea showed resilience in the final stages. Substitute Alejandro Garnacho sparked a revival, scoring twice to reduce the deficit and restore belief inside Stamford Bridge. His first came moments after entering the pitch, while his second goal set up a tense finish as Arsenal were forced to defend deeper than they would have liked .
Despite Chelsea’s late surge, Arsenal held on to secure a crucial away win. The result leaves the tie finely balanced but gives Arteta’s side the edge heading into the second leg, where Chelsea must now chase the game away from home.
With a place in the Carabao Cup final at stake, both teams will know that the return fixture promises another high-intensity London derby, but Arsenal’s first-leg performance has put them firmly in the driving seat.
