Arsenal staged an impressive comeback to defeat Crystal Palace 3-2 in a thrilling EFL Cup quarter-final clash at the Emirates Stadium. Gabriel Jesus was the star of the night, scoring a second-half hat-trick that propelled the Gunners into the semi-finals alongside Newcastle United and Liverpool.
First-Half Setback
The game started on a sour note for Arsenal as Crystal Palace took an early lead. Dean Henderson’s long pass found Jean-Philippe Mateta, who capitalized on a defensive lapse by Jakub Kiwior to open the scoring in the fourth minute. Arsenal dominated possession afterward but struggled to break down a resolute Palace defense. Despite their control, the Gunners managed only two shots on target in the first half, leaving the home crowd anxious.
Second-Half Revival
Mikel Arteta made crucial substitutions at halftime, introducing Martin Odegaard and William Saliba. Their impact was immediate, as Odegaard provided the assist for Gabriel Jesus to equalize in the 54th minute. Arsenal maintained their attacking momentum, pinning Palace deep into their half.
In the 73rd minute, Bukayo Saka set up Jesus for his second goal, putting Arsenal ahead for the first time. The Brazilian completed his hat-trick in the 81st minute with another assist from Odegaard, securing a 3-2 lead. Arsenal’s relentless pressure saw them take seven shots on target, while Palace managed only two throughout the game.
Defensive Resilience
In the closing stages, Arsenal tightened up defensively to thwart any Palace comeback attempts. The Gunners held their ground to see out the victory, showcasing both their offensive firepower and defensive discipline.
Arsenal Player Ratings
David Raya – 6.5/10
Raya made two crucial saves and handled aerial balls well with one high claim. His distribution included three accurate long balls.
Thomas Partey – 6.5/10
Partey contributed with three duel wins and a vital interception, maintaining an 87% passing accuracy.
Jurrien Timber – 6.5/10
Timber delivered a solid performance, winning three duels and making two interceptions and clearances.
Jakub Kiwior – 5.5/10
Kiwior endured a difficult outing, with his early misjudgment leading to Palace’s opener.
Kieran Tierney – 7/10
On his return from injury, Tierney impressed by winning all three of his duels and contributing defensively with a clearance and an interception.
Ethan Nwaneri – 6/10
Nwaneri struggled, failing to provide any key passes or accurate crosses and losing possession eight times.
Jorginho – 6.5/10
The midfielder maintained a 94% passing accuracy and made one key pass and interception.
Mikel Merino – 7/10
Merino was energetic, winning 10 duels and taking two shots, one of which was on target.
Raheem Sterling – 6/10
Sterling had a frustrating outing, hitting the woodwork once and missing a clear chance.
Gabriel Jesus – 9.5/10
Jesus was the hero, scoring a superb hat-trick that turned the game around for Arsenal. He also won four duels.
Leandro Trossard – 7.5/10
Trossard contributed with accurate passing, including a key pass and an accurate cross, while also winning five duels.
Substitutes
William Saliba – 6.5/10
Saliba brought composure to Arsenal’s defense in the second half.
Martin Odegaard – 8/10
Odegaard changed the game with two assists, driving Arsenal’s comeback.
Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6/10
Lewis-Skelly had a steady performance after replacing Tierney.
Bukayo Saka – 7.5/10
Saka made an immediate impact, assisting Jesus’ second goal three minutes after coming on.
Gabriel Magalhaes – N/A
Magalhaes played less than 10 minutes and wasn’t involved enough to receive a rating.
Crystal Palace’s Effort Falls Short
Crystal Palace made the most of their limited opportunities, but Arsenal’s relentless pressure and Gabriel Jesus’ brilliance proved too much to handle. Palace’s defensive setup forced Arsenal to work hard for their goals, but their inability to sustain attacks ultimately cost them.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s win underscores their resilience and attacking depth as they advance to the EFL Cup semi-finals. Gabriel Jesus’ hat-trick will be remembered as a defining moment in their campaign, while Mikel Arteta’s tactical changes highlighted the team’s adaptability. The Gunners now set their sights on the next challenge, aiming to bring silverware back to the Emirates.
SOURCE: Sportkeeda.com
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