Arsenal moved one step closer to ending their semi-final curse after a 3-2 away win over Chelsea in the first leg of their Carabao Cup tie.
The victory puts Mikel Arteta’s side in a strong position ahead of the return leg at the Emirates Stadium on 3 February, as they chase a first major final since lifting the FA Cup in 2020.
Viktor Gyokeres marked a timely return to form with his first open-play goal since November and an assist for Martin Zubimendi, as the Gunners overcame late Chelsea pressure to take control of the tie.
Despite twice holding a two-goal lead, Arsenal were unable to fully shut the door, with Alejandro Garnacho scoring both of Chelsea’s goals to keep the hosts alive.
Arteta admitted the margin could have been greater, but praised his players’ performance and focus.
Attention now quickly shifts to the Premier League, with Arsenal away at Nottingham Forest on Saturday at 6:30 pm WAT, before resuming their push for an EFL Cup final place and a potential Wembley date on 22 March.
