Arsenal stunned by Fleetwood on penalties in EFL Cup

Arsenal's Gunners were eliminated this Tuesday in the round of 16 of the EFL Cup against the modest Fleetwood club. After a 1‑1 draw in regular time, Arsenal lost 5‑3 on penalties, causing a shock in England.

Arteta opts for a major rotation

Mikel Arteta had decided to rotate his squad heavily against the thirteenth‑placed League Two side, currently struggling in their league. This decision aimed to rest the starters while giving game time to the reserves, even though the risk was high.

Fleetwood opens the scoring and holds on

Fleetwood opened the scoring in the 21st minute thanks to Aaron Loupalo‑Bi, who took advantage of a lax Arsenal defence. Despite this goal, the Gunners dominated possession with 78 % of the ball, but the offensive accuracy remained poor, producing only one shot on target.

At halftime, Arteta introduced two regular starters, which slightly revived the London side. The effect materialised quickly: Viktor Gyokeres equalised in the 50th minute, bringing the score back to 1‑1.

In the second half, Arsenal multiplied dangerous chances, but Fleetwood's defence and goalkeeper made decisive saves. Max Dowman was sent off in the 85th minute, leaving the Gunners to play ten against eleven.

The match was decided by a penalty shootout in which all of Fleetwood's takers scored. Bruno Guimaraes missed his kick, sealing the Gunners' fate and sparking joy among the local supporters.

The crowd at Highbury Stadium, nicknamed as such in a nod to Arsenal's former ground, experienced a moment of madness before the final defeat, while the London players left with downcast faces.