In one of the most dramatic finishes the Carabao Cup has ever witnessed, Arsenal edged past Crystal Palace in a marathon 8-7 penalty shootout at the Emirates Stadium, but not before Oliver Glasner's side threatened to pull off a major upset.
Benítez Stands Tall Against Arsenal's Onslaught
The statistics told a story of complete domination: 80% possession, seven shots on target, and endless pressure from the hosts. Yet Arsenal found themselves staring at a stubborn 0-0 scoreline at halftime, thanks entirely to an inspired performance from Palace goalkeeper Walter Benítez.
The Argentine made a stunning double save to deny Gabriel Jesus – making his first start in 345 days after injury – and Noni Madueke in quick succession. It was a goalkeeper's masterclass that kept his side alive when they had no right to be.
The Lacroix Horror Show
When the breakthrough finally arrived in the 80th minute, it came from an unlikely source. Bukayo Saka's corner caused chaos in the Palace box, and defender Maxence Lacroix could only prod the ball into his own net under pressure from William Saliba.
The Frenchman's nightmare was only just beginning. After Marc Guéhi equalized deep into stoppage time, Lacroix would later step up to take the 16th penalty of the shootout – only for Kepa Arrizabalaga to dive low to his right and save, sending Arsenal through to the semi-finals.
Glasner Praises Second-Half Transformation
Despite the defeat, Palace boss Oliver Glasner took encouragement from his side's improved second-half display. "In the first half, we were too passive," he admitted. "But in the second half, I saw a different team. Coming back here was really great."
The German was particularly impressed by the quality of the shootout: "I don't know if I've seen a shoot-out where all the penalties are taken so well. We have to build on the second half performance."
Arteta's Frustration Bubbles Over
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta struck a more critical tone, visibly frustrated by his team's inability to kill the game despite their territorial dominance.
"The margin should have been much bigger after 94 minutes – it should have been three or four," he said. "It wasn't, and when that happens, teams have the quality to hurt you on any set-piece. That was emotionally tough to accept."
The Spaniard also addressed concerns about late goals, with Arsenal having now conceded in the dying moments against Sunderland, Aston Villa, Wolves and now Palace in recent weeks.
Merino's Pointed Comments
Perhaps the most revealing post-match comments came from midfielder Mikel Merino, who appeared to take aim at teammate William Saliba for the needless foul that led to Palace's equalizer.
"We cannot concede that free-kick," Merino said. "We have to be a much more composed and mature team."
Arsenal legend Ian Wright echoed those sentiments on Sky Sports: "For a player of his experience, it's a terrible foul to give away. You felt it in the air that something was coming."
Injury Concerns Mount
Arteta's growing injury crisis deepened with Piero Hincapié unavailable after picking up a knock against Everton, while Gabriel Martinelli was forced off following a collision of knees with Jayden Canvot.
Despite the concerns, the Gunners remain in the hunt for four trophies this season: Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and now a semi-final clash with Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.
Semi-Final Preview
Arsenal will face Chelsea in a two-legged semi-final, with the first leg at Stamford Bridge on January 13th and the return at the Emirates on February 3rd or 4th. Before then, the Gunners host Brighton on Boxing Day as the relentless fixture schedule continues.
