Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has lauded his team’s resilience and character after they secured a dramatic 8-7 penalty shootout victory over Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. The Gunners advanced to the semi-finals following a tense 1-1 draw, where they conceded a gut-wrenching equaliser in stoppage time.
Arteta described the late leveller as “emotionally tough” to digest but praised his players for their composure and quality displayed during the subsequent penalty shootout. The manager acknowledged that his side should have put the game beyond doubt much earlier, highlighting missed opportunities in the first half.
Crystal Palace’s reserve goalkeeper, Walter Benitez, was instrumental in keeping Arsenal at bay during the opening period, making a series of impressive saves. He denied key players like Noni Madueke, Gabriel Jesus, and Eberechi Eze, ensuring his team remained in contention despite intense pressure.
The breakthrough finally came for Arsenal ten minutes from the end when Riccardo Calafiori’s header from a Bukayo Saka corner was deflected into his own net by Palace defender Maxence Lacroix. This own goal seemed to have sealed Arsenal’s progression.
However, in a dramatic twist, Marc Guehi equalised for Crystal Palace in the fifth minute of added time, heading home from a corner. This strike, Palace’s first shot on target, sent the tie to penalties, much to the frustration of the home side and their manager.
Despite the late setback, Arsenal held their nerve in the shootout. Kepa Arrizabalaga made the decisive save to deny Lacroix, who had an unfortunate evening, sending Arsenal through. Arteta specifically commended Arrizabalaga for his crucial contribution in the penalty decider.
“The margins should have been much bigger,” Arteta stated, reflecting on the missed chances. “We generated a lot of chances against a well-organised team that concedes few goals. When that happens, teams have the quality to hurt you on a set-piece.”
This victory marks Arsenal’s fourth consecutive win across all competitions and extends their impressive run of form. The Gunners will face Chelsea in the semi-finals in January, continuing their pursuit of silverware this season.
The manager emphasised the importance of winning in “different situations and contexts,” crediting his squad for consistently performing at a high level every three days. This consistency is vital as they navigate multiple competitions and maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner provided an update on defender Chris Richards, who was stretchered off with a foot injury. While the extent of the injury is still being assessed, Glasner expressed hope for his swift return, though he remains uncertain about his availability for upcoming fixtures.
Arteta’s post-match comments underscore the fine margins in top-level football. He stressed the need for his team to pay attention to “every detail” if they are to achieve their trophy ambitions this season, a lesson perhaps reinforced by the dramatic events at the Emirates Stadium.
The Carabao Cup semi-final draw has set up an intriguing London derby between Arsenal and Chelsea, promising a highly anticipated encounter in the new year as both teams vie for a place in the final.
