Arsenal advanced to the EFL Cup final with a 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the semi-final second leg, clinching a 4-2 aggregate triumph at the Emirates Stadium. Kai Havertz scored the decisive goal in the 97th minute, assisted by Declan Rice, after a tense match with few chances. The Gunners will face either Newcastle or Manchester City at Wembley on March 22.
The match on February 3, 2026, at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium in North London was a cautious affair, reflecting the high stakes of the EFL Cup semi-final. Arsenal entered with a slim aggregate lead from the first leg and focused on game management, dominating possession but creating few clear opportunities in the first half. Chelsea, needing to overturn the deficit, set up in a compact 3-5-2 formation and probed from distance through Enzo Fernandez, while Arsenal's Piero Hincapie forced a save from Robert Sanchez.
The second half saw Chelsea increase their intent, introducing substitutes Cole Palmer and Alejandro Garnacho to add urgency. A potential turning point came late when Gabriel Martinelli went down under a challenge from Trevoh Chalobah, but VAR ruled the contact natural, denying Arsenal a penalty. As Chelsea pushed forward in stoppage time, gaps emerged at the back.
In the 97th minute, Declan Rice launched a counter-attack with a precise through ball to Kai Havertz, the former Chelsea forward, who rounded Sanchez and slotted home. The goal sealed Arsenal's progression and sparked jubilation among players and fans.
Mikel Arteta praised the atmosphere and defensive resilience: "Joy, happiness. The work that everybody in the club does... everyone is so happy." He highlighted the moment Rice passed to Havertz, noting the bench and crowd's reaction. Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior acknowledged improvements despite absences like Reece James and Pedro Neto: "We really felt with the game plan, we had a good chance... Not many teams come here and put on the level of performance that we have tonight."
Trevoh Chalobah reflected on the defeat: "It’s disappointing not to get into the final. It’s the final details in the attacking third." Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice emphasized the significance: "We deserve it... this season we have that extra desire and fire in our bellies."
This marks Arsenal's first major final since their 2020 FA Cup win under Arteta, ending a run of four semi-final losses. As Premier League leaders, the Gunners eye further success in multiple competitions, with the final opponent to be decided by Newcastle's match against Manchester City.
