Europe’s football heavyweights enjoyed a significant night as Arsenal and Barcelona progressed in their respective domestic cup competitions, moving closer to lifting the season’s first major trophies.
Arsenal dominate Chelsea in League Cup semi-final
Arsenal sealed their place in the League Cup final with a composed performance against Chelsea, completing a 4–2 aggregate win over two legs. After establishing a 3–1 lead in the first leg, the Gunners entered the return fixture with confidence and control. A single goal from Kai Havertz proved enough on the night, securing a 1–0 victory and underlining Arsenal’s superiority across the tie.
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Arteta eyes long-awaited trophy
This qualification marks Arsenal’s ninth League Cup final appearance, though their success rate remains modest, with only two titles won so far. That history adds urgency to the current campaign, as Mikel Arteta seeks to deliver the club’s first trophy since 2020. While the result was emphatic, Arteta struck a cautious note, stressing that the job is only half done. Arsenal will discover their final opponents after Manchester City face Newcastle United in the second semi-final.
Barcelona march into Copa del Rey semi-finals
In Spain, Barcelona continued their impressive Copa del Rey journey with a 2–1 quarter-final win over Albacete. The Catalans showed resilience and attacking quality, with goals from teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal and centre-back Ronald Araújo guiding them into the last four.
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Barcelona’s latest victory further strengthened their formidable knockout record in the competition, where they have now won 54 of their last 59 matches. As the tournament enters its decisive phase, Barcelona once again look well placed to mount a serious challenge for a trophy they have long dominated, while Arsenal, across Europe, sense a prime opportunity to end their silverware wait.
