Eliminate Crystal Palace Through Penalty Shootout, Arsenal Awaited by Chelsea in Carabao Cup Semifinal
Source: Antara/UEFA.com
Arsenal advanced to the Carabao Cup Semifinal after eliminating Crystal Palace in the quarterfinals at Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, early morning WIB. The Gunners were forced into a penalty shootout when the match ended 1-1 in regular time.
The Gunners, playing at home, accelerated from the start of the match. Noni Madueke threatened Palace's goal but was denied by goalkeeper Walter Benitez.
Despite multiple attempts, Arsenal struggled to break through Palace's defensive setup. The score remained 0-0 until halftime.
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In the second half, Arsenal intensified their attacks, relentlessly pressuring Palace's defense. Benitez shone brilliantly by parrying Gabriel Jesus's curling shot attempt.
Arsenal's persistence finally paid off in the 80th minute through an own goal by Maxence Lacroix.
The Palace defender misjudged the rebound from Riccardo Calafiori's shot during an Arsenal corner routine. The hosts led 1-0.
Ahead by one goal, Arsenal continued to threaten during Injury time. Benitez again rescued his team by blocking Jurrien Timber's close-range shot.
Just as the match seemed destined for an Arsenal victory, Palace stunned the hosts with an equalizer.
Originating from Adam Wharton's Free-kick, Jefferson Lerma headed the ball toward Marc Guehi. The Palace captain seized the opportunity and converted it into a goal. The 1-1 scoreline in regular time sent the match to penalties.
Arsenal emerged victorious 8-7 after Kepa Arrizabalaga saved Palace's eighth penalty taker, Maxence Lacroix.
This win sends Arsenal to the semifinals of the English League Cup. Mikel Arteta's squad will face fellow London club Chelsea. The other semifinal pits Manchester City against Newcastle.
Line-ups
Arsenal: Kepa Arrizabalaga; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Riccardo Calafiori, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Mikel Merino, Christian Norgaard, Eberechi Eze; Noni Madueke, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli.
Crystal Palace: Walter Benitez; Marc Guehi, Maxence Lacroix, Chris Richards; Tyrick Mitchell, Jefferson Lerma, Adam Wharton, Jaydee Canvot; Yeremy Pino, Eddie Nketiah; Jean-Phillipe Mateta.
