Arsenal officially booked a spot at Wembley for the Carabao Cup final after defeating Chelsea 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium to secure a 4-2 aggregate victory.
Although the night ended in a celebratory mood, the final stages were characterized by pure tactical tension and a moment when Mikel Arteta lost his cool seconds before the decisive strike was scored.
Mikel Arteta was ‘mad’ after Kai Havertz’s winner
The atmosphere in north London reached a fever pitch as Chelsea forced extra-time in search of a late equaliser.
With Arsenal defending a narrow lead, the ball appeared to drift out of play during Chelsea’s frantic build-up, but play continued.
Former England international Matt Upson, commentator on BBC Radio 5 Live, captured the frenetic energy on the touchline.
“Well, 30 seconds ago Mikel Arteta was furious that the referee didn’t blow the whistle.
“The last 10 minutes were a lot of pressure,” Arteta was seen gesturing frantically to the fourth official, convinced his team had been denied a blatant stoppage.
However, that irritation disappeared in an instant. Arsenal intercepted the resulting play and launched a lightning counter-attack while Chelsea’s defense was still overcommitted in the final third.
Arsenal likely to face Man City in final Wembley clash
This victory means Arsenal will face either Manchester City or Newcastle in the final.
The most likely opponents will be Josep Guardiola’s side, who lead 2-0 on aggregate.
The return match will be held at the Etihad, with the home team considered favorites to defeat the defending champions and advance to the final.
Mikel Arteta has a chance to win Arsenal’s first trophy in five years.
Man City haven’t been at their usual best this season. In contrast, Arsenal are looking their strongest at the moment and are full of confidence as Arteta is doing a great job at the club.
Will the League Cup be the first of several trophies Arsenal will win this season?
