After nearly six years of near misses, Arsenal have finally broken through. Their 4-2 aggregate victory over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final has secured a place in a major final, ending a long wait for success at the business end of a competition. This will be the club’s first final since Mikel Arteta led them to FA Cup glory in 2020, and only the second of his managerial tenure. The late injury-time goal from Kai Havertz that sealed the tie was a moment of relief and celebration for players and fans alike, highlighting just how much this achievement matters.
The second leg at the Emirates was tense and cautious. Both sides had only two shots on target, and there were long periods where neither team threatened seriously. Chelsea struggled to create opportunities, while Arsenal remained composed, organised, and in control. The game was not remarkable for its flair or attacking excitement, but it demonstrated the maturity and discipline that have made Arteta’s side difficult to beat this season. When it mattered, they finished the job and progressed to the final.
Arsenal Set to Face City or Newcastle in EFL Cup Final on March 22
Arsenal will now contest the EFL Cup for the ninth time, facing either Manchester City or Newcastle United on Sunday, 22 March. A potential clash with City carries added significance as it would mirror the 2018 final, which City won while Arteta was part of Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff. This time, Arsenal approach as equals and have the chance not only to win the trophy for the first time in 33 years but also to reshape perceptions of their ability to succeed in crucial matches.
Arsenal End Long Wait for Silverware with Carabao Cup Final Berth Against RivalsArteta emphasised the emotional and motivational impact of the win. He highlighted the special atmosphere in the Emirates and how shared moments of achievement boost players’ energy and focus during a demanding season. For a squad competing on multiple fronts, reaching a final strengthens unity, reinforces belief, and provides a sense of reward for the hard work invested in training and preparation.
Midfielder Declan Rice described the achievement as the culmination of years of effort. Arsenal have come close in recent seasons, finishing near the top of the Premier League but falling short in key moments. That history of near-misses has fuelled a sharper determination this season. Rice framed reaching the final as a deserved reward and as proof that the team can go further in all competitions.
This semi-final victory also represents a psychological breakthrough. Since winning the FA Cup in 2020, Arsenal had reached four semi-finals and failed to advance in any of them. They had not even won a single leg in those ties. Overcoming Chelsea demonstrates that the team can manage high-pressure situations and maintain focus when the stakes are highest. It is an important step in building confidence and belief in their ability to win silverware.
Former Arsenal defender Matt Upson highlighted that this result is the outcome of a long-term process. Arteta has focused on building a strong team culture, improving unity, and fostering resilience across the squad. Reaching a final is the natural result of these foundations finally paying off. Arsenal now has tangible evidence that their work ethic, discipline, and cohesion can produce success.
Momentum will be crucial as the season progresses. Historically, early silverware can provide a boost for further success. Seven of the last twelve EFL Cup winners went on to win at least one additional trophy in the same season. Winning the League Cup could give Arsenal confidence and energy that carries through the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League campaigns.
Arsenal Must Balance Pressure, Focus, and Ambition While Chasing Multiple Trophies
Despite the optimism, pressure remains a constant factor at a club of Arsenal’s size. William Saliba noted that expectation is part of the experience of playing for a top club and can be a positive force. Arsenal has the squad depth, talent, and managerial guidance to compete for trophies in multiple competitions. The key will be sustaining performance, focus, and energy in every match over the next several months.
Pundits have also observed that the semi-final win could allow Arsenal to play with greater freedom. Jamie Redknapp suggested that removing the mental burden of repeated near-misses might enable the players to approach games with confidence and enjoyment. Winning a semi-final for the first time in years can relieve anxiety and allow the team to focus fully on football.
Currently, Arsenal leads the Premier League by six points and has advanced to the Champions League last 16 after a perfect group stage. They will face League One side Wigan in the FA Cup fourth round. While talk of winning all major trophies this season may seem ambitious, the team’s current position demonstrates that multiple successes are within reach. Past English teams have approached the possibility of sweeping domestic and European competitions, but no team has ever achieved a quadruple. Even Arsenal’s Invincibles of 2003-04 claimed only the league title. Arteta will keep expectations realistic, but the semi-final win opens the door to larger ambitions.
For now, Arsenal’s focus is on the final. This is an opportunity to end a long wait for silverware, reward the squad’s hard work, and change the narrative around the team. After years of being labelled as nearly men, they are back on the big stage with a chance to prove they can deliver when it matters most. Wembley awaits, and with it, the possibility of a trophy and renewed belief for players, staff, and supporters alike.
