January 15, (THEWILL) — Arsenal claimed a crucial 3-2 victory over Chelsea in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge.
Viktor Gyokeres contributed a goal and an assist in an entertaining encounter that marked Liam Rosenior’s opening home fixture in charge of the Blues.
The visitors took control early when Ben White headed home from Declan Rice’s corner after just seven minutes.
Robert Sanchez was caught out of position, and the goal stood following a VAR review despite Gyokeres being in an offside position.
Arsenal doubled their advantage four minutes into the second half when Sanchez fumbled White’s delivery, allowing Gyokeres a simple finish.
Chelsea reduced the deficit shortly before the hour through substitute Alejandro Garnacho, who converted at the back post.
However, Arsenal restored their two-goal lead with 19 minutes remaining when Gyokeres held up play brilliantly before Martin Zubimendi weaved past two defenders and fired into the left corner of the net.
Garnacho struck again late on with a half-volley that bounced off the turf and found the net, ensuring Chelsea remain within touching distance ahead of the second leg.
The former Manchester United forward’s double prevented Arsenal from taking a more commanding lead into the return fixture.
The two sides will meet again on 3 February, with Arsenal holding the advantage but Chelsea still very much in contention following Garnacho’s late strike. The tie remains open despite Arsenal’s victory in West London.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
