Arsenal clinched their place in the League Cup final after a dramatic 1-0 second-leg win over Chelsea, with William Saliba anchoring a resolute defense and Kai Havertz providing the late heroics.
Mikel Arteta’s side booked their first major cup final appearance at Wembley since 2020 by maintaining their composure against a tactically shifting Chelsea side.
After a cagey first half, the Gunners weathered increased pressure in the second period before striking on the counter-attack in the final moments.
The aggregate 4-2 victory ensures North London will be represented in next month’s showdown against either Manchester City or Newcastle United.
Kepa Arrizabalaga (7): The goalkeeper enjoyed a relatively serene evening against his former club. His most notable contribution was a confident save from an Enzo Fernandez long-range effort, which proved to be the only time he was truly tested throughout the match.
Jurrien Timber (8): A standout performer in the backline, Timber was essential in neutralizing Chelsea’s counter-attacking threats. He showed great defensive discipline, particularly after the introduction of Estevao, and was instrumental in keeping the Blues’ left wing quiet.
William Saliba (9): The heart of the Arsenal defense, Saliba was virtually flawless. His ability to remain calm under the pressure of the Chelsea press provided the foundation for the clean sheet, delivering the kind of elite performance that defines championship-caliber teams.
Gabriel (8): The Brazilian was a dominant physical presence, though he might regret not finding the net himself. He had several headed opportunities across both halves that lacked the final touch but remained a bedrock of stability alongside Saliba.
Piero Hincapie (8): In what was arguably his finest showing since joining the club, the left-back was a dual threat. His powerful strike forced a save that led to a goalmouth scramble, and his defensive positioning was impeccable against a rotating Chelsea attack.
Martin Zubimendi (8): Functioning as the team’s heartbeat, the Spaniard controlled the game’s rhythm with ease. He was metronomic in possession and vital in disrupting Chelsea’s attempts to build momentum through the center of the pitch.
Declan Rice (8): Despite a rare lapse in concentration with a wayward pass early on, Rice grew into the game’s protagonist. His energy galvanized the home crowd, and he ultimately provided the crucial assist for Havertz’s late winner.
Eberechi Eze (6): It was a quiet night for the playmaker, who struggled to find his usual influence. He missed a decent opportunity when the ball fell to him in the area and was largely overshadowed by the game’s defensive intensity.
Noni Madueke (6): Engaged in a grueling physical battle with Marc Cucurella, Madueke showed flashes of danger but lacked the clinical edge required to break the deadlock. He was withdrawn in the second half as Arteta sought fresh legs.
Viktor Gyokeres (5): The striker found chances hard to come by against Chelsea’s three-man defense. While he worked hard to create space and provide crosses early in the second half, he was unable to register a meaningful shot on target.
Gabriel Martinelli (7): The winger looked the most likely to score in the opening stages, seeing a goal-bound effort blocked by Malo Gusto. His persistent running behind the defense kept Chelsea on edge until the very end.
Substitutes
Kai Havertz (7): Coming off the bench to haunt his former employers, Havertz showed composure when it mattered most. His late goal, rounding Robert Sanchez to finish into an empty net, sparked wild celebrations and secured the trip to Wembley.
Leandro Trossard (6): Introduced to offer tactical flexibility, Trossard helped manage the closing stages of the game. His intelligent movement and defensive work rate ensured Arsenal maintained their lead until the final whistle.