Alejandro Garnacho’s brace wasn’t enough for Chelsea as Arsenal secured a 3-2 win in the EFL Cup semi-final first leg at Stamford Bridge. Ben White headed Arsenal ahead in the 7th minute from Declan Rice corner and striker Viktor Gyokeres doubled their lead immediately after second half resumption in the 49th minute. Garnacho who was subbed in pulled one back for Chelsea in the 57th minute, Martin Zubimendi then restored Arsenal’s two-goal lead again in the 71st minute only for Garnacho to score again in the 83rd minute, to half the deficit but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Liam Rosenior, Chelsea’s manager, took responsibility for goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s mistakes, saying he’s accountable for his players’ errors. The Chelsea goalie seems to be at fault for Arsenal first two goals in a match that stars like Cole Palmer, Reece James and Moises Caicedo were absent.
The second leg will be played on February 3 at the Emirates Stadium. The winner will face either Manchester City or holders Newcastle United in the final with Pep Guardiola side on a 2-0 advantage over Eddie Howe side ahead of second leg.
