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Arsenal Survives Palace Scare in Epic Penalty Shootout
24 Dec
Summary
- Arsenal advanced to the League Cup semifinals after a thrilling penalty shootout.
- The match ended 1-1 in normal time with an own goal and a late equalizer.
- Kepa Arrizabalaga's crucial save secured Arsenal's dramatic victory.
Arsenal has advanced to the English League Cup semifinals following a dramatic 8-7 penalty shootout victory against Crystal Palace. The thrilling quarter-final match, played at Emirates Stadium, saw both teams locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes. Arsenal initially took the lead in the 80th minute via an own goal by Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, who inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net from a corner.
Crystal Palace fought back resiliently, achieving an equalizer deep into stoppage time. Marc Guehi found the back of the net following a free-kick delivered by Adam Wharton, forcing the match into a penalty shootout. The shootout was nail-biting, with both sides converting their initial penalties until Kepa Arrizabalaga made a critical save on Lacroix's attempt, sealing Arsenal's progression.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed satisfaction with the team's victory, acknowledging the numerous chances created. The Gunners will now face Chelsea in the next round of the League Cup. Meanwhile, Manchester City is set to compete against defending champions Newcastle in the other semifinal tie.
