By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 15 January 2026 - Arsenal have taken a vital step toward the EFL Cup final after securing a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Chelsea in a pulsating semi-final first-leg clash at Stamford Bridge.
In a match filled with drama, momentum swings, and high-quality attacking football, the Gunners showed composure and cutting edge to claim an important away win that gives them the upper hand ahead of the return leg at the Emirates Stadium.
The visitors wasted no time in asserting themselves.
Arsenal broke the deadlock in the 7th minute when Ben White rose highest to head home from a Declan Rice corner, catching Chelsea’s defence off guard and silencing the home crowd.
The early goal set the tone for a confident Arsenal display as they controlled possession and dictated the tempo.
Chelsea attempted to respond with more urgency, but Arsenal’s midfield remained disciplined, cutting off passing lanes and launching quick counter-attacks.
Despite the Blues’ growing pressure, it was Arsenal who struck again shortly after the restart.
In the 49th minute, Viktor Gyökeres pounced on a loose ball in the box after a goalkeeping error, calmly tapping home to double the Gunners’ advantage.
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Chelsea refused to fold and found a lifeline in the 57th minute when substitute Alejandro Garnacho made an instant impact, finishing clinically from a Pedro Neto cross to make it 2–1. The goal reignited Stamford Bridge, with the home side pushing forward in search of an equaliser.
However, Arsenal remained composed and restored their two-goal lead in the 71st minute. Martin Zubimendi found space on the edge of the area and curled a superb strike into the corner, leaving the Chelsea goalkeeper with no chance.
Just when it seemed Arsenal were cruising, Chelsea struck again.
Garnacho completed his brace in the 83rd minute, reacting quickest after a partially cleared corner to make it 3–2 and keep the tie alive.
The final minutes were tense, with Chelsea throwing everything forward and Arsenal defending resolutely. When the final whistle blew, it was the Gunners who celebrated, knowing they now carry a narrow but crucial advantage into the second leg.
With Manchester City one step away from the final, Arsenal are now just one strong performance away from booking a blockbuster showdown.
Chelsea, however, will take belief from their late resurgence and know that the tie is far from over.
