Football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating a pivotal Carabao Cup semifinal second leg as Arsenal prepares to host Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners enter this decisive match with a narrow 3-2 advantage from the initial clash at Stamford Bridge, where goals from Ben White, Viktor Gyökeres, and Martin Zubimendi propelled them ahead, despite a brace from Chelsea's Alejandro Garnacho. This fixture not only promises a thrilling contest but also holds significant implications for both clubs' aspirations in the competition.
Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, currently leading the Premier League, are driven to secure their first League Cup final appearance since 2018. Historical statistics favor them, as only two teams out of 32 have previously failed to reach the final after winning the first leg of an EFL Cup semi-final away from home. However, Chelsea, under the revitalized leadership of Liam Rosenior, arrive in stellar form. The Blues boast an impressive five-game winning streak, including a remarkable comeback victory against West Ham over the weekend. Rosenior's tenure has seen Chelsea win six of his first seven matches, and they have maintained a perfect record in all three of their away EFL Cup fixtures this season.
Team news reveals critical challenges for both sides. Arsenal faces a late assessment for their influential player Bukayo Saka, who is recovering from a hip injury. Noni Madueke is prepared to step in if Saka is unavailable, following a strong performance. Mikel Merino, a key midfielder, is a notable absence due to a rare foot fracture requiring surgery, while young talent Max Dowman remains sidelined. Conversely, Riccardo Calafiori and Jurriën Timber are fit for selection. For Chelsea, wide players Estêvão Willian and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens are significant doubts due to compassionate leave and a foot injury, respectively. While Filip Jörgensen is nearing a return, Robert Sánchez is expected to start in goal. Long-term absentees Levi Colwill, Tosin Adarabioyo, Dário Essugo, and Roméo Lavia continue to be unavailable.
Arsenal's recent form is formidable, highlighted by a dominant 4-0 victory over Leeds United, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League. The Emirates Stadium has become a formidable stronghold, with Arsenal winning their last three home encounters against Chelsea, scoring nine goals and conceding just one. Furthermore, Arteta's squad is enjoying an exceptional nine-game unbeaten run against Chelsea across all competitions (W6 D3), marking their best sequence in this rivalry since 2004. Chelsea's resurgence under Liam Rosenior has been equally impressive, with the team displaying remarkable spirit and resilience, as evidenced by their 3-2 comeback win against West Ham. The Blues have a history of overcoming first-leg deficits in the EFL Cup semi-finals, having progressed in three of their last four such instances. They are determined to avoid losing both legs of a semi-final, a fate they haven't experienced since 1991.
The match, scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 20:00 GMT, will be officiated by Peter Bankes, with James Bell overseeing VAR duties. The last encounter between these two London rivals in the League Cup on January 14, 2026, saw Arsenal triumph 3-2. The predicted lineups for this crucial fixture suggest a strong attacking presence from both sides. Arsenal's probable XI includes Arrizabalaga; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Ødegaard; Madueke, Jesus, Martinelli. Chelsea's expected lineup features Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Fofana, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Garnacho; Pedro. The game will be broadcast live in the UK on ITV1, Sky Sports Main Event, and Sky Sports Football, with coverage commencing at 19:00 GMT.
The stage is set for a captivating semifinal as both Arsenal and Chelsea vie for a coveted spot at Wembley. Arsenal seeks to maintain their impressive domestic form and secure a return to the League Cup final, leveraging their home advantage and strong head-to-head record. Chelsea, revitalized under new management, will look to continue their winning momentum and demonstrate the fighting spirit that has characterized their recent performances. With key players on both sides facing fitness concerns, the tactical battles and individual brilliance will undoubtedly shape the outcome of this eagerly anticipated London derby.