Arsenal sealed their passage to Wembley with a well-earned victory over bitter rivals Chelsea to set up a showdown vs Manchester City in the League Cup final. A Rudiger own goal and a Xhaka finish from close range completed the turnaround after Hazard’s early opener to extend Wenger’s positive record vs Conte and give Arsenal a glorious chance at some mid-season silverware.
The Gunners’ defence was at sixes and sevens as Chelsea started the match with positive intent and took the lead inside 7 minutes after Pedro slipped Hazard in. An unfortunate own goal from Rudiger off Monreal’s header restored parity but Chelsea still had the away goals advantage. Ozil went close in the first-half stoppage time as his strike was deflected just wide. The second half saw little in the way of chances but Lacazette’s persistence and another slice of luck allowed Xhaka to poke home when the French striker’s low cross deflected into the Swiss international’s path. An Iwobi chance, which was well saved by Caballero, aside, neither goalkeeper was troubled much and Wenger now gets a chance to win the cup he’s never won.
David Ospina- 6/10
Largely untroubled, but could’ve done better for Hazard’s goal.
Nacho Monreal- 7.5/10
Got booked but solid throughout. Didn’t put a foot wrong defensively and assisted the Rudiger own goal.
Laurent Koscielny- 6.5/10
Showed more glimpses of his decline as he was caught out for the first goal. Looked shaky in the opening half but composed in the second.
Shkodran Mustafi- 6.5/10
Like his partner, looked flustered initially as Chelsea came flying out of the blocks but improved in the second half.
Hector Bellerin- 6/10
Similar to his teammates, started slowly and struggled to get into the game. Got more involved and enjoyed more freedom in the second half as Arsenal shifted to a back 3.
Mohamed Elneny- 8/10
One of the few Arsenal players who was good in the first half. Circulated the ball well in midfield and wasn’t caught out of position. Steadied the defence in the second half when asked to drop back deeper.
Granit Xhaka- 7/10
Played a more advanced role. Out of position at times in the first half but got his rewards for his ventures up front and won the game with a smart finish.
Jack Wilshere- 7.5/10
England’s best midfielder had another strong showing. Industrious, and was his team’s engine, driving them on at every opportunity.
Mesut Ozil- 7.5/10
The German continued his strong season with another very good game. Released the ball at perfect times, kept the play ticking and ran at Chelsea when he could. His driving run lured Hazard into a lunge and earned the Belgian a booking.
Alex Iwobi- 6.5/10
Started horribly as he gave the ball away too often. Became better as the game progressed and always an outlet on the break.
Alexandre Lacazette- 7/10
Tough performance to judge. Worked tirelessly to harass the Chelsea backline but was aloof for prolonged periods as he was starved of service. The second goal was down to his industry and sheer persistence, combined with luck.
SUBSTITUTES
Aaron Ramsey (Iwobi 84’) – N/A
Sead Kolasinac (Lacazette 84’) – N/A
