Mikel Arteta has acknowledged that Arsenal’s work is far from over, stressing the need for focus despite their 3-2 victory over Chelsea in the first leg of the EFL Cup semifinal.
The Gunners grabbed a first leg advantage heading into the second leg of their last four tie on Wednesday after defeating their London rivals at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues had Liam Rosenior at the dugout for the first time at their home stadium and his second game in charge since his appointment last week.
Ben White opened the scoring with his first goal since netting against Chelsea in 2024 with a header after Robert Sanchez flapped at a Declan Rice’s delivery.
“Coming here against a team with the quality they have in every department and doing what we did throughout the game is very impressive. We showed dominance, scored three goals and had two big chances to score a fourth”, Arteta stated.
“They scored at a moment that changed the game a bit, but overall I’m very happy. It could have been even better.
“Sometimes you also have to give credit to the opponent. They have players who can unlock duels and run at you, and that’s what they’re capable of doing.”
Victor Gyokeres capitalized on another Sanchez error to double the advantage, before substitute Alejandro Garnacho pulled one back for the home side.
Martin Zubimendi scored a third for Arsenal and Garnacho reduced the deficit once again to set up a 3-2 finish.
“They opened up the game. The positions and heights they used made them more dangerous when we lost the ball or when they won second balls and duels. At the same time, they were also much more exposed”, he continued.
“We’re happy tonight, and now it’s time to start preparing for the next game.”
The return leg will take place at the Emirates Stadium on February 3 with all to play for in the clash, to determine who advances to the final of the 2025-26 EFL Cup.
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