Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta described the Carabao Cup quarter-final tie against Crystal Palace as “emotionally tough” after his side snatched victory on penalties following a dramatic 1-1 draw. The Gunners were left to rue missed chances throughout the match, only to concede a stoppage-time equalizer before ultimately prevailing 8-7 in the shootout.

The Emirates Stadium witnessed a frustrating first half for Arsenal, who failed to convert numerous opportunities despite dominating possession and creating clear-cut chances. Crystal Palace’s stand-in goalkeeper, Walter Benitez, was in exceptional form, making a series of crucial saves to deny Arsenal a lead going into the break.

Arsenal finally broke the deadlock ten minutes from the end when defender Maxence Lacroix inadvertently put the ball into his own net following a corner from Bukayo Saka and a scramble in the box. The own goal seemed to have secured Arsenal’s progression to the semi-finals.

However, Crystal Palace found a lifeline in the fifth minute of added time. Marc Guehi met a flicked header from a corner and managed to squeeze the ball past Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, marking Palace’s first shot on target and forcing the match into a penalty shootout.

Following fifteen flawless penalties from both sides, it was Maxence Lacroix who experienced a moment of misfortune again, with Kepa diving the right way to make the decisive save, sending Arsenal through to the semi-finals where they will face Chelsea. Arteta expressed his satisfaction with his team’s composure under pressure during the shootout.

Arteta lamented his team’s inability to capitalize on their earlier dominance, stating that the “margins should have been much bigger.” He emphasized the importance of attention to detail when aiming for trophy success, particularly after conceding from a set-piece late in the game. The victory marked Arsenal’s fourth consecutive win across all competitions.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner provided an update on defender Chris Richards, who was stretchered off with a foot injury. Glasner expressed hope for his swift return, though he remained uncertain if Richards would be available for their upcoming fixtures against Tottenham and Fulham.

The Carabao Cup semi-final draw paired Arsenal with Chelsea, setting up a London derby in January. This hard-fought victory continues Arsenal’s positive run of form, having recently regained their lead at the top of the Premier League.

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Keywords: Arsenal Crystal Palace Carabao Cup penalties, Mikel Arteta Kepa Arrizabalaga, Premier League, football match analysis, Emirates Stadium, Marc Guehi own goal, Walter Benitez saves