In one of the most astonishing upsets in League Cup history, Premier League champions and reigning Carabao Cup runners-up Arsenal were dramatically knocked out in the Round of 16 by fourth-tier (League Two) side Fleetwood Town. Following a tense 1-1 draw through regulation time at Highbury Stadium, Fleetwood triumphed 5-3 in the penalty shootout.
The hosts drew first blood in the 21st minute when Aaron Loupalo-Bi outpaced Arsenal defender Marley Salmon and beat goalkeeper Illan Meslier from a tight angle. Play was briefly interrupted for eight minutes during the first half after a drone was spotted hovering above the stadium.
The introduction of captain Martin Ødegaard at halftime catalyzed Arsenal's resurgence. Five minutes into the second half (50'), debutant Sidach O'Neil set up Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres, who slotted home his first goal of the season to equalize. However, Mikel Arteta’s side failed to capitalize on their momentum. Late drama unfolded in the 85th minute when 16-year-old prospect Max Dowman received a red card, forcing the Gunners to play out the remainder with 10 men.
In the ensuing penalty shootout, scores were level at 3-3 before disaster struck for Arsenal. Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimarães—who also suffered penalty heartache for Brazil in the Round of 16 exit against Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup—saw his weak, hesitant spot-kick comfortably saved by Fleetwood goalkeeper Jay Lynch. Fleetwood converted their fifth penalty to seal a historic 5-3 victory, making Arsenal the first Premier League defending champion in League Cup history to be eliminated by a fourth-tier club.
— Daily Best News Desk • Fearless in the search for truth
Reported by Sports Desk • Edited by the Daily Best News desk. Send corrections to [email protected].
