Arsenal vs Chelsea: Predicted Lineups and Team News for Carabao Cup Semi-Final
The stage is set for a thrilling Carabao Cup semi-final second leg as Arsenal host Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night. The Gunners hold a narrow advantage after securing a 3-2 victory at Stamford Bridge in the first leg last month, but the tie remains finely balanced. Arsenal will be aiming to defend their lead and secure a place at Wembley, while Chelsea are determined to overturn the deficit and advance to the final.
First Leg Recap and Current Form
In the initial encounter, Arsenal demonstrated their attacking prowess by taking a two-goal lead on two separate occasions. Goals from Ben White and Viktor Gyokeres put the visitors in a commanding position, only for Alejandro Garnacho to pull one back for Chelsea. Martin Zubmendi then restored Arsenal's two-goal cushion, but Garnacho struck again late in the game, ensuring the tie remains delicately poised. Since that match, both teams have maintained strong form in other competitions. Arsenal delivered a dominant 4-0 victory over Leeds United in the Premier League, while Chelsea edged out West Ham United with a 3-2 win on Saturday. These results have boosted confidence ahead of this crucial second leg.
Injury Concerns and Team Updates
Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow with the news that Mikel Merino is likely to miss the remainder of the season due to a fractured foot. Additionally, Bukayo Saka is a doubt for the match after missing the Leeds game with a minor hip issue. Teenager Max Dowman is also unavailable due to an ankle injury. Despite these setbacks, manager Mikel Arteta has a wealth of options at his disposal. Players such as Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Jesus are pushing for starting roles, but competition for places is intense. Arteta is expected to field a strong lineup, with Kepa Arrizabalaga likely to continue as the Carabao Cup goalkeeper, though there may be some rotation in the full-back positions.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are grappling with a more extensive injury list. Key players including Levi Colwill, Dario Essugo, Tosin Adarabioyo, Romeo Lavia, and Jamie Gittens are all sidelined. Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen is also a doubt, while winger Estevao is absent due to personal reasons. Manager Liam Rosenior has been unpredictable with his team selections, particularly in defence where he has multiple options to consider. Regarding Estevao's situation, Rosenior commented, "I don’t know yet, with Este, he is a young kid who has come and been magnificent. He is going through a really difficult time for personal reasons and is on compassionate leave. I won’t put any pressure on him, it has to be right for him and he has to feel in the right place to perform for this team."
Predicted Lineups and Tactical Outlook
Arsenal are anticipated to field a near-full-strength side, with Arteta likely to prioritise experience and consistency. The midfield battle will be crucial, with both teams boasting creative talents. Chelsea, despite their injury woes, have depth in their squad and will look to exploit any weaknesses in Arsenal's defence. Rosenior's tactical approach could involve a more aggressive strategy to overturn the deficit, potentially leading to an open and entertaining contest.
Match Details and Viewing Information
The match is scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, with kick-off at 8pm. Fans can watch the action live on ITV1, with coverage beginning at 7.30pm. The game will also be available for streaming on ITVX and the ITV app, ensuring supporters do not miss a moment of this high-stakes encounter.
What's at Stake?
The winners of this semi-final will advance to the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium, where they are likely to face Manchester City. City hold a 2-0 lead from their first leg against Newcastle United, making them strong favourites to progress. For Arsenal, victory would represent a significant step towards silverware this season, while Chelsea are eager to keep their trophy hopes alive. With both teams in good form and plenty of talent on display, this promises to be a captivating clash that could go down to the wire.
