Daijiworld Media Network - London
London, Dec 24: Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga emerged as Arsenal’s unlikely hero as the Gunners edged past Crystal Palace 8-7 on penalties to reach the League Cup semi-finals, following a dramatic 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.
Arsenal appeared set for victory after Palace defender Maxence Lacroix inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 80th minute, handing the hosts a late lead. However, Marc Guehi struck deep into stoppage time to force a penalty shoot-out and keep Palace alive in the contest.
The shoot-out went down to the wire, with both teams converting their first seven spot-kicks. William Saliba calmly slotted home Arsenal’s eighth attempt before Kepa dived to his right to deny Lacroix, sealing a tense victory for the north London side.
The decisive save marked a cathartic moment for Kepa, who has endured painful memories in League Cup shoot-outs in the past, notably during Chelsea’s defeats in the 2019 and 2022 finals.
Arsenal will now face London rivals Chelsea in the two-legged semi-final in January and February, while Manchester City will take on holders Newcastle United in the other last-four clash.
“We created a lot and should have scored many more goals. When you don’t finish games, anything can happen,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. “There were some big individual performances. Kepa’s commitment to the group is incredible, and in the end he made the difference.”
The Gunners have reached the League Cup semi-finals for the second successive season as they continue their search for silverware, having last lifted a trophy with the FA Cup triumph in 2020. Arsenal have won the League Cup only twice, with their last success coming in the 1992-93 season.
Arteta made eight changes from the side that beat Everton at the weekend but still named a strong line-up. Gabriel Jesus made his first start in 345 days after returning from a long-term knee injury, while Palace goalkeeper Walter Benitez produced a string of fine saves to keep the visitors in the contest.
Despite Arsenal’s dominance, Palace stunned the home crowd with a last-gasp equaliser before Kepa ensured the night ended in celebration for the Gunners, who will now turn their focus back to the Premier League title race after Christmas.