Arsenal left it late, but once again proved their dominance over Chelsea with a dramatic 1-0 victory in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. The result sealed a 4-2 aggregate win, extending the Gunners’ unbeaten run against the Blues to 10 straight meetings and booking their place in a first domestic cup final since lifting the FA Cup in 2020.
For football fans in Tanzania, this was another reminder of why the Arsenal vs Chelsea rivalry remains one of the most thrilling fixtures in English football.
A Nervy Start at the Emirates
With so much at stake, both sides began cautiously. Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez looked uncomfortable early on, forced to deal with two underhit backpasses, while Liam Delap wasted a rare opening after a mistake from William Saliba.
The rain-soaked Emirates pitch added to the tension, with players slipping and struggling to control the ball. Piero Hincapié produced Arsenal’s first real moment of quality in the 18th minute, curling a dangerous shot that Sánchez tipped away brilliantly.
Despite a few half-chances, the first half remained goalless, with both teams more focused on avoiding mistakes than taking risks.
Chelsea Push, Arsenal Hold Firm
After the break, Chelsea showed more urgency. João Pedro and Jorrel Hato both tested the Arsenal defence, while manager Liam Rosenior made bold changes, introducing Cole Palmer and Estêvão to inject creativity.
Marc Cucurella and Enzo Fernández tried their luck from distance, but neither could find the breakthrough Chelsea desperately needed.
Arsenal, meanwhile, remained disciplined. Gabriel Magalhães came closest for the hosts with a powerful header that Cucurella heroically blocked.
Havertz Delivers at the Death
Just when it looked like the match would head to extra time, Arsenal struck.
In the final seconds of stoppage time, Declan Rice surged forward and slipped a perfect pass to substitute Kai Havertz. The German calmly rounded Sánchez and rolled the ball into an empty net, sparking wild celebrations inside the Emirates.
It was a classic smash-and-grab finish — ruthless, clinical, and heartbreaking for Chelsea.
What the Result Means
- Arsenal: Reach their first domestic cup final since 2020.
- Chelsea: Suffered only their second defeat under Liam Rosenior, both against Arsenal.
- H2H Record: Arsenal now unbeaten in 10 straight games vs Chelsea.
- Chelsea’s Wait: Still searching for their first Carabao Cup trophy since 2015.
For Tanzanian fans who follow the Premier League closely, this result strengthens Arsenal’s reputation as one of England’s most consistent cup teams in recent years.
Why This Match Matters for Tanzanian Bettors
Matches like Arsenal vs Chelsea are some of the most popular fixtures for football betting in Tanzania. From match results to goal scorers and live in-play markets, big English games attract massive attention from local bettors using mobile platforms and online sportsbooks.
With Arsenal now heading to the final, attention will quickly shift to betting on the Carabao Cup final winner, first goal scorer, and correct score markets.
Bet on Big Football Moments with Bangbet
If you want to enjoy matches like this with extra excitement, Bangbet is your go-to betting platform in Tanzania.
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Whether you’re backing Arsenal in the final or betting on your favourite EPL team, Bangbet makes every match more thrilling.
Final Thoughts
Kai Havertz’s late winner didn’t just send Arsenal to the final — it confirmed their growing authority over Chelsea and kept their trophy hopes alive.
For Tanzanian football fans, it was another unforgettable night of English football drama, and a perfect reminder that in cup football, the last kick can change everything.
