Arsenal Secure Wembley Spot After 4‑2 Aggregate Win Over Chelsea
Updated (3 articles)
Semi‑Final Victory Secures Wembley Spot Arsenal defeated Chelsea 4‑2 on aggregate on 3 February 2026, with Kai Havertz’s injury‑time goal clinching the win and ending a six‑year absence from major finals [1]. Both sides recorded two shots on target, but Arsenal’s higher conversion proved decisive. The result guarantees Arsenal a place in the EFL Cup final at Wembley.
Arteta and Players Highlight Newfound Hunger Mikel Arteta called the Emirates atmosphere “magical” and praised his squad’s extra desire after years of near‑misses [1]. Midfielder Declan Rice said the team “deserves it,” while former defender Matt Upson and current defender William Saliba stressed the trophy’s momentum‑building effect. Ex‑Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp added that Arsenal now appear ready to chase multiple trophies this season.
Potential Opponent and Trophy Implications Arsenal will face the winner of the Manchester City‑Newcastle semi‑final on 22 March 2026, a possible repeat of the 2018 final against City [1]. Securing the cup would deliver Arsenal’s first League Cup in 33 years and could silence critics labeling the club “nearly men.” The victory also marks Arteta’s second cup final appearance, the first being the 2020 FA Cup win.
Timeline
1993: Arsenal win the League Cup, their most recent triumph in the competition, creating a 33‑year drought that persists into 2026 [1].
2020: Arsenal capture the FA Cup under Mikel Arteta, marking his first cup final appearance and the club’s last major trophy before a six‑year wait for another final [1].
2023‑2025: Arsenal finish as Premier League runners‑up for three consecutive seasons, reinforcing a pattern of near‑misses that heightens pressure for a breakthrough title [2].
Jan 14, 2026: Arsenal beat Chelsea 3‑2 away in the Carabao Cup semi‑final first leg, with Viktor Gyökeres ending his drought and assisting Martin Zubimendi; Ben White admits the second‑half display “was not up to our standards,” while Arteta praises the performance but warns against complacency [3].
Jan 27, 2026: Arsenal lose 3‑2 at home to Manchester United, their first home defeat of the season and third league loss after a congested schedule; Arteta convenes a squad meeting, calling the players’ response “excellent” and using it to reset the team’s mindset [2].
Jan 27, 2026: Ahead of the upcoming Champions League group match, Arteta previews the clash with Kairat, noting Arsenal’s perfect 7‑0 group record and urging enjoyment, courage and conviction in a four‑month plan to win the league, cups and Europe [2].
Feb 3, 2026: Arsenal overturn Chelsea 4‑2 on aggregate in the Carabao Cup semi‑final, securing a Wembley final spot and ending a six‑year wait for a major final; Arteta calls the Emirates atmosphere “magical,” and Declan Rice says the squad “deserves it” after years of falling short [1].
Mar 22, 2026 (scheduled): Arsenal will contest the EFL Cup final at Wembley against the winner of Manchester City vs Newcastle, offering a chance to claim the first League Cup since 1993 and silence critics who label the Gunners “nearly men” [1].