Talking points from Arsenal’s Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace | OneFootball

Arsenal sealed a place in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup by beating Crystal Palace in a shootout on Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium. 

The Gunners thought they had won the game when Maxence Lacroix inadvertently put the ball into his own net in the 80th-minute. 

However, Palace found a dramatic equaliser in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Marc Guehi slotted in from close range to force the game to penalties. 

A high-quality penalty shootout followed before Kepa Arrizabalaga saved Lacroix’s spot kick to give Arsenal the victory. 

Gabriel Jesus returns

Manager Mikel Arteta made eight changes to the Arsenal side that triumphed over Everton last weekend, handing Gabriel Jesus his first start since getting injured 11 months ago. 

The Brazilian marked his return with a significant milestone, as he made his 100th appearance for the club. 

Jesus enjoyed an impressive outing at the Emirates, linking up well with the wide players. 

He also came close to scoring when his strong header forced Walter Benítez into a low save. 

No place for Nwaneri

Ethan Nwaneri had a breakout season in 2024-25 when he featured 37 times across all competitions. 

But the youngster’s role has diminished this campaign, making just six substitute appearances in the Premier League. 

Despite making eight changes, there was no place for Nwaneri in the Arsenal team on Tuesday. 

The 18-year-old has started three games all season, as he faces competition from Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino. 

Arsenal’s injury problems deepened

The North Londoners were without Gabriel Magalhaes, Max Dowman, Kai Havertz, Cristhian Mosquera and Ben White due to fitness issues. 

But their injury problems deepened after Gabriel Martinelli was forced off with a knock in the Carabao Cup win over Palace. 

Arteta confirmed the forward’s injury in his post-match press conference, but didn’t provide further details. 

Piero Hincapie was also absent from the squad after picking up a knock against Everton. 

Walter Benitez’s outstanding display

Second-choice Palace goalkeeper Walter Benitez delivered an outstanding display against Arsenal. 

The 32-year-old was put under relentless pressure in the opening 45 minutes but he made a string of brilliant saves to keep the score 0-0 until half-time. 

The Argentine also denied Declan Rice at the death, ensuring penalties came at the Emirates. 

Dean Henderson remains Palace’s number one, but Benitez showed that he is ready to step up at any point should Oliver Glasner need him. 

Stats from Transfermarkt