Arsenal reached the EFL Cup semi-finals for the second consecutive season after defeating Crystal Palace 8-7 on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
The match remained tightly contested until late in the game. Arsenal went ahead in the 81st minute when Maxence Lacroix accidentally diverted William Saliba’s effort into his own net. Palace responded in the 95th minute as Marc Guéhi reacted quickest to Jefferson Lerma’s knock-down in the six-yard box to level the score.
Both teams had chances throughout. Early on, Tyrick Mitchell fired wide for Palace, while Noni Madueke tested Walter Benítez with a low strike. Benítez also pulled off a spectacular save to deny Gabriel Jesus’ header. After halftime, Palace looked more dangerous, with Lerma heading over and Adam Wharton narrowly missing with a long-range attempt.
The game was ultimately decided by penalties, where Kepa Arrizabalaga saved Lacroix’s spot-kick to secure an 8-7 shootout win for Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta’s team will face Chelsea in a two-legged EFL Cup semi-final set for January and February.
