Arsenal moved one step closer to ending their long wait for major silverware as Kai Havertz’s dramatic late strike sealed a place in the Carabao Cup final at the expense of Chelsea.

Holding a narrow 3-2 advantage from the first leg, Mikel Arteta’s side were made to work deep into stoppage time on a tense night at the Emirates Stadium. Just when the contest appeared destined to drift to penalties, substitute Havertz produced a moment of composure in the 97th minute, rounding goalkeeper Robert Sánchez before calmly rolling the ball into an empty net.

The goal sparked wild celebrations among the home supporters and confirmed Arsenal’s aggregate victory, setting up a Wembley final next month against either Manchester City or Newcastle United.

Tight First Half as Chelsea Dig In

Arsenal began the match on the front foot, controlling possession and probing patiently, but clear chances were at a premium. Chelsea, set up in a disciplined back five by manager Liam Rosenior, limited space in dangerous areas and frustrated the Gunners throughout a cagey first half.

Despite Arsenal’s territorial dominance, Chelsea’s compact shape ensured the hosts struggled to create meaningful openings, with both sides going into the break level on the night.

Tactical Shifts but Arsenal Hold Firm

Rosenior attempted to swing the momentum in Chelsea’s favour just after the hour mark, introducing Cole Palmer and Estevão to add attacking spark. The changes briefly lifted the visitors, but Arsenal’s defensive structure — a hallmark of their season — remained unshaken.

The Gunners absorbed pressure calmly, restricting Chelsea to speculative efforts and set-piece half-chances. As the clock ticked down and penalties loomed, Arsenal continued to show patience rather than panic.

Havertz Delivers the Decisive Moment

That composure paid off in the closing seconds. Havertz, only recently back from injury and facing his former club, latched onto a late opening, skipped past Sánchez and finished coolly to settle the tie once and for all.

It was a cruel blow for Chelsea, but a defining moment for Arsenal — and possibly a symbolic one for their season.

Arsenal Analysis: A Defining Step in Arteta’s Project

The roar that followed Havertz’s goal spoke volumes. This was more than just progression to a cup final — it felt like a landmark moment in Arsenal’s ongoing evolution under Arteta.

The Gunners have not lifted a major trophy since their FA Cup triumph in Arteta’s debut season, despite finishing second in the Premier League for three consecutive years. Reaching the EFL Cup final represents a tangible opportunity to turn progress into silverware.

Arteta, who witnessed Manchester City’s rise to dominance from close quarters during his time on Pep Guardiola’s staff, understands the importance of winning that first trophy. Arsenal now boast a squad rich in quality and confidence, sitting top of the Premier League, advancing in the FA Cup, boasting a perfect Champions League record so far — and now one game away from lifting the League Cup for the first time since 1993.

With momentum firmly on their side, belief within the camp is growing that this could mark the beginning of a successful era.

Chelsea Analysis: Encouraging Signs Under Rosenior

Despite the heartbreak, there were positives for Chelsea and their new manager. Liam Rosenior showcased his tactical flexibility by switching to a three-centre-back system — a setup rarely used since Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure but one that has brought the club success in the past.

Chelsea’s defensive shape was far more assured than in the first leg, where they conceded three times from set pieces. This time, Arsenal were largely kept at arm’s length, with Enzo Fernández forcing a notable save before half-time and only limited opportunities conceded late on.

The gamble to leave attackers high up the pitch during Arsenal corners showed ambition, while late attacking substitutions restored Chelsea’s familiar shape and increased pressure in the final stages.

Ultimately, Arsenal’s defensive solidity proved decisive, and Havertz’s late intervention broke Chelsea hearts. Even so, Rosenior can take encouragement from a vastly improved performance that suggests his ideas are beginning to take hold.