The dream of Carabao Cup glory evaporated for Chelsea in a truly deflating manner, leaving former Arsenal legend Paul Merson utterly "flabbergasted" by their semi-final exit. Mauricio Pochettino's side failed to ignite at the Emirates Stadium, delivering a performance that drew fierce criticism and dashed hopes of silverware.
Key Points:
- Chelsea crashed out of the Carabao Cup to rivals Arsenal, losing 4-2 on aggregate.
- Paul Merson delivered a scathing critique, labeling the Blues' performance "numb" and "flabbergasting."
- Pochettino's side managed a mere 0.68 expected goals in a toothless display in the second leg.
- Arsenal now advance to the final, awaiting either Manchester City or Newcastle United.
Blues' Cup Hopes Crushed by Clinical Arsenal
Chelsea entered the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal with a mountain to climb, having lost the first leg 3-2 despite a late fightback. Many expected a fiery, determined response at the Emirates Stadium, yet what unfolded was a display devoid of genuine attacking threat.
The Blues struggled profoundly to create meaningful opportunities throughout the match. Arsenal's goalkeeper was largely untroubled, making only two routine saves. The final nail in the coffin arrived in the 97th minute, when former Chelsea man Kai Havertz netted the only goal of the night, sealing a 1-0 defeat on the night and a 4-2 aggregate victory for the Gunners.
Merson's Blistering Verdict: "They Never Had a Go!"
Few pundits are as outspoken as Paul Merson, and the ex-Arsenal star did not hold back in his assessment of Chelsea's performance. Speaking on Sky Sports, he expressed profound disappointment, declaring himself "numb" and "flabbergasted" by what he witnessed.
"This is Chelsea Football Club," Merson exclaimed, highlighting the club's stature and the quality of its international players. "They should be crying because they never had a go. They have gone out with an absolute whimper in the semi-final of a big competition."
Merson's frustration resonated with many fans, especially given the paltry 0.68 expected goals posted by Chelsea. Even defender Wesley Fofana appeared visibly emotional at full-time, underscoring the weight of the moment for the players.
Pochettino's Challenge Intensifies After Wembley Dream Fades
The Carabao Cup exit marks only the second defeat for Mauricio Pochettino in his managerial tenure at Chelsea, following an otherwise impressive start that included six wins from eight matches. However, both losses have come against fierce rivals Arsenal, highlighting a tactical hurdle for the Blues boss.
Despite this setback, Pochettino's side now face a crucial run of fixtures to reignite their campaign. Upcoming Premier League clashes against Wolves, Leeds United, and Burnley offer immediate chances to bounce back, alongside an FA Cup tie against Hull City. The ultimate test will arrive in early March when Chelsea face Arsenal once more in the Premier League.
Gunners March On: Arteta's Pride and a Final Awaits
While heartbreak gripped West London, North London erupted in celebration. Mikel Arteta's Arsenal side delivered a controlled, resilient performance that perfectly navigated the semi-final pressure. Arteta beamed after the game, praising his team's "resilience" and "clarity" to understand the game required.
"There was a special atmosphere inside our stadium," Arteta noted, emphasizing the impact of the home support. "We've been waiting a few years to get into this position and we're certainly going to enjoy it [the final]."
Arsenal now eagerly anticipate their opponents for the Carabao Cup final on Sunday, March 22. They will face the winner of the other semi-final, which sees Manchester City holding a 2-0 advantage over Newcastle United going into their second leg.
.jpg)
