Daijiworld Media Network - London

London, Jan 15: Arsenal claimed a narrow but valuable advantage in the Carabao Cup semi-final after securing a pulsating 3-2 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, keeping the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg.

The Gunners struck early through Ben White, who rose unmarked to head home Declan Rice’s corner just seven minutes into the contest. Arsenal controlled large spells of the opening half, though Chelsea threatened through Enzo Fernández and Estevão Willian without finding the breakthrough.

Shortly after the restart, Arsenal doubled their lead when Viktor Gyökeres finished from close range, converting a low delivery from White to cap off a sharp attacking move.

Chelsea responded with urgency, and substitute Alejandro Garnacho pulled one back by steering Pedro Neto’s cross into the far corner, reigniting hopes for the home side. However, Arsenal quickly reasserted their dominance as Martin Zubimendi danced past two defenders on the edge of the box before calmly slotting home to make it 3-1.

Garnacho was not finished, though. With seven minutes remaining, he struck again, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the penalty area and volleying past the goalkeeper to set up a tense finale.

Chelsea pressed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages, with Estevão denied by a fine save, while Arsenal also threatened to extend their lead through chances for Gabriel Magalhães and Mikel Merino.

Despite missing several key players, Chelsea showed resilience and intensity under Liam Rosenior, whose high-pressing tactics played a role in their late surge. Arsenal, meanwhile, showcased their composure at crucial moments and extended their unbeaten run to 10 matches.

The result leaves Arsenal carrying a slender one-goal lead into the second leg at the Emirates Stadium on February 3, with the tie still very much alive.