Arsenal booked their place in the League Cup semi-finals after edging Crystal Palace 8–7 on penalties following a dramatic 1–1 draw at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night.
Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga emerged as the hero, producing the decisive save in the shoot-out to cap a difficult night for Palace defender Maxence Lacroix.
Lacroix had earlier put Arsenal ahead in the 80th minute with an unfortunate own goal, turning Bukayo Saka’s corner into his own net under pressure from William Saliba. However, Palace struck back deep into stoppage time when Marc Guehi bundled home from close range after Adam Wharton’s free-kick was flicked on by Jefferson Lerma.
With the scores level at 1–1 after regulation time, the tie went straight to penalties. Both sides converted their first seven spot-kicks before Saliba calmly slotted Arsenal’s eighth. Kepa then dived to his right to deny Lacroix, sealing the win and sending the Emirates crowd into celebration.
The moment marked a form of redemption for Kepa, who has endured painful penalty shoot-out memories in the competition, including defeats with Chelsea in the 2019 and 2022 finals.
Arsenal will now face London rivals Chelsea over two legs in January and February, while Manchester City take on holders Newcastle United in the other semi-final.
The Gunners reach the League Cup last four for the second consecutive season as they continue their pursuit of a first trophy since winning the FA Cup in 2020. Although their primary focus remains the Premier League title—last won in 2004—lifting the League Cup would provide a significant morale boost.
Manager Mikel Arteta made eight changes to the side that beat Everton at the weekend, but still named a strong lineup. Gabriel Jesus made his first start in 345 days after recovering from a long-term knee injury, while Palace goalkeeper Walter Benítez produced several outstanding saves to keep his side in contention.
Despite dominating possession and chances, Arsenal needed a late breakthrough before Palace’s last-gasp equaliser forced penalties. Ultimately, Kepa’s composure proved decisive as Arsenal kept their cup hopes alive.
