Gunners’ dominance without immediate reward

Arsenal delivered a high-intensity performance in the EFL Cup quarterfinals, doing more than enough to decide the match before halftime. Possession, tempo, and relentless pressing defined the contest, yet the scoreboard remained unchanged for long stretches thanks to the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Walter Benítez, who kept Crystal Palace alive.

Arteta’s side created a steady stream of chances, especially down the flanks, with Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke repeatedly beating their markers. However, a lack of clinical finishing once again proved costly, preventing the home side from turning superiority into goals. Even so, the pressure suggested a breakthrough was inevitable.

That moment finally arrived in the 84th minute. A well-worked set piece delivered by Bukayo Saka led to a fortunate rebound off Maxence Lacroix, putting Arsenal ahead 1–0. With time running out, qualification seemed secured — but football had one more twist in store.

Late equalizer and an endless shootout

Deep into stoppage time, at the 95th minute, Crystal Palace struck back from a dead-ball situation. Jonathan Lerma flicked the ball on, and Marc Guéhi rose to finish at the far post, forcing the match into penalties. It was a crushing blow for Arsenal, who had controlled nearly every aspect of the game.

What followed was a nerve-shredding shootout. Fifteen consecutive penalties were converted without a miss. Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, Saka, Leandro Trossard, Mikel Merino, William Saliba, and their teammates all delivered under pressure. Palace responded in kind, refusing to blink.

The deadlock was finally broken when Kepa Arrizabalaga stepped into the spotlight. The Spanish goalkeeper produced the decisive save on the 16th penalty, denying Lacroix and sparking celebrations at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal secured their semifinal place.

Depth, resilience, and a lingering issue

Arsenal will now face Chelsea in the semifinals, underlining their status as one of the deepest and most competitive squads in English football. Still, the night highlighted a familiar concern: the creativity and chances are there, but finishing remains an area to improve.

With composure, resilience, and a decisive goalkeeper, Arteta’s side remains firmly in the title hunt. In a competition where mistakes are unforgiving, Arsenal survived an unforgettable night and moved one step closer to Wembley.