Talking points from Arsenal’s Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace

Arsenal sealed a place in the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup by beating Crystal Palace in a shoot-out at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday. 

The Gunners thought they had won the game when Maxence Lacroix inadvertently put the ball into his own net in the 80th minute. 

However, Palace equalised in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Marc Guehi slotted in from close range to force the game to penalties. 

A high-quality penalty shoot-out ensued, before Kepa Arrizabalaga saved Lacroix’s spot kick to send Arsenal into the semi-final.

Gabriel Jesus returns 

Manager Mikel Arteta made eight changes to the Arsenal side that triumphed over Everton last weekend, handing Gabriel Jesus his first start since getting injured 11 months ago.

The Brazilian marked his return with a significant milestone, as he made his 100th appearance for the club.

Jesus enjoyed an impressive outing at the Emirates, linking up well with the wide players. 

He also came close to scoring when his strong header forced Walter Benitez into a low save. 

No place for Nwaneri 

Ethan Nwaneri had a breakout season in 2024-25, featuring 37 times across all competitions. 

However, he has made just six substitute appearances in the Premier League this term, and there was no place for him on Tuesday. 

The 18-year-old has started three games all season, as he faces competition from Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino. 

Arsenal’s injury problems deepened

Arsenal were without Gabriel Magalhaes, Max Dowman, Kai Havertz, Cristhian Mosquera and Ben White due to fitness issues. 

Their injury problems deepened after Gabriel Martinelli was forced off with a knock.

Arteta confirmed the forward’s injury in his post-match press conference, but didn’t provide further details. 

Piero Hincapie was also absent from the squad after picking up a knock against Everton. 

Walter Benitez’s outstanding display 

Second-choice Palace goalkeeper Walter Benitez produced an outstanding display against Arsenal. 

The 32-year-old was put under relentless pressure in the first half, but he made a string of brilliant saves to keep the score 0-0 until the break.

Dean Henderson remains Palace’s number one, but Benitez showed that he is ready to step up at any point if manager Oliver Glasner needs him. 

Stats from Transfermarkt.