Arsenal Advance to Carabao Cup Semi-Finals After Penalty Shootout Drama

Arsenal secured a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals after defeating Crystal Palace in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw at the Emirates. The match saw Arsenal dominate the first half, creating multiple scoring opportunities but failing to convert them due to Crystal Palace's goalkeeper Walter Benitez's performance. Gabriel Martinelli was particularly effective on the left flank, creating chances for Gabriel Jesus, Noni Madueke, and Jurrien Timber.

Crystal Palace responded in the second half, making two substitutions at halftime that shifted the game's momentum. Adam Wharton missed a chance to give Palace the lead, exposing vulnerabilities in Arsenal's midfield. In response, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta introduced Leandro Trossard, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard to regain control of the match.

The deadlock was broken in the 83rd minute when Riccardo Calafiori's header from Saka's corner deflected off Lacroix into the net. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. Crystal Palace equalized in stoppage time through Guehi, forcing the game into penalties.

In the penalty shootout, successful conversions from Odegaard, Declan Rice, Saka, Trossard, and Mikel Merino put Arsenal in a strong position. Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga then saved Lacroix's penalty to secure Arsenal's victory. Kepa's performance, rated 7/10, proved decisive despite a quiet first half and a late booking for time-wasting.

Jurrien Timber (6/10) was active in attack, while William Saliba (8/10) delivered a strong defensive performance. Other players, such as Myles Lewis-Skelly (6/10), showed potential but lacked consistency. Arteta's decision to make eight changes to the starting lineup reflected a focus on squad rotation, but the team's inability to capitalize on early dominance underscores ongoing challenges in converting chances. Arsenal will face Chelsea in the semi-finals.

Editor’s note: This article was independently written by the Scoopliner Editorial Team using publicly available information.