After an emotionally charged night at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal defeated Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate, securing their ticket to Wembley.

For manager Mikel Arteta, this victory against Chelsea was not just a semi-final triumph, but also the ultimate reward for the team's years of perseverance and never giving up.

Arsenal had previously fallen short in the League Cup semi-finals in 2022 and 2025, but this time they broke the curse. After the match, Arteta emotionally stated that reaching the final was the result of years of hard work by the entire team.

“I can’t wait to go to Wembley because we’ve worked so hard over the past few years,” Arteta said. “We’ve come so close to the final so many times, so this time we really want to enjoy the moment.”

In the final moments of the match, Kai Havertz's stoppage-time goal sealed the victory. For Arteta, this goal transcended the scoreline itself; it symbolized one of the most moving rewards in competitive sports.

Arteta couldn't hide his excitement when talking about that game-winning moment: "That's why you work so hard every day, and why so many people work so hard every day, all for these moments."

"When we scored that goal, everyone gathered together to celebrate, their faces beaming with bright smiles, full of energy and pride. We are fully qualified to be on the final stage, so let's enjoy it to the fullest."

Arteta also didn't forget the supporters in the stands, praising the fans for creating an amazing atmosphere and emphasizing the team's exceptional quality in both legs, deserving to defeat a highly competitive opponent like Chelsea.

Looking ahead to the decisive match on March 22, Arsenal will be aiming for their first League Cup title since 1993. With this opportunity looming, Arteta hopes the team can make history and win their first trophy.

Image source: Internet/Arsenal official website