Kai Havertz booked Arsenal’s place in the Carabao Cup final as he earned them a 1-0 second-leg victory over Chelsea in north London.
Mikel Arteta’s side had no need to throw caution to the wind after their 3-2 win at Stamford Bridge in the first leg and they prioritised holding that advantage rather than pushing to extend it.
There were some nervy moments, particularly from Chelsea corners, but Arsenal held firm and then sealed it with the final kick as Havertz rounded Robert Sanchez to finish into an empty net.
Standard Sport’s Matt Verri was at the Emirates Stadium to rate the Arsenal players...
Kepa Arrizabalaga 5
Terrible flap at one corner nearly put Arsenal in real trouble - a set-piece he should probably have prevented in the first place. Only had one save to make as Arsenal defended well in front of him.
Jurrien Timber 8
So powerful when he runs with the ball and secure in those inverted positions. Led the way for interceptions and gave Chelsea nothing down that wing.
William Saliba 7
Heavy touch in his own box early on gifted Liam Delap a chance which was dragged wide. That was his only moment of concern, otherwise dealing well with physical challenge of Joao Pedro.
Gabriel 8
Once again the glue at the back for Arsenal. A rock defensively and superb on the ball, creating two chances with balls over the top. Should have scored with big headed chance, though.
Piero Hincapie 6
Rash with decision-making at both ends. Sometimes firm the challenges but sometimes too eager. Rushed passes in the final third, although powerful strike forced Sanchez into a good save.
Martin Zubimendi 7
Gorgeous clipped cross for Gabriel with 15 minutes remaining should have been headed in and also set Eze away with clever clipped free-kick. At times, though, he was too safe with his passing when the press was beaten.
Declan Rice 8
Worked tirelessly in midfield, making three challenges in a 10-second spell in the second half that drew huge applause. Had the energy to make one final burst in final seconds and set up Havertz for goal with great pass.
Noni Madueke 6
Enjoyable tussle with Marc Cucurella throughout. Got into good positions but wasteful after creating the space for crosses. One was sent straight at Sanchez, another out of play. End product continues to be the problem.
Eberechi Eze 5
Big chance with Martin Odegaard out injured but failed to take it with frustratingly quiet display. Did not have a single touch in the Chelsea box and struggled to get Arsenal playing centrally.
Gabriel Martinelli 8
Pace in behind was crucial against a high Chelsea line. Did not stop making those runs and relentless in tracking back. Scuffed effort in the first half when through but Arsenal’s most dangerous attacker.
Viktor Gyokeres 5
A spectator in the first half, managing just three touches. Improved after the break, putting his body about and making good runs down the channels, but struggled overall despite recent upturn in form.
Substitutes
Kai Havertz (Gyokeres 69’) 8
Had more touches in his cameo than Gyokeres had in 69 minutes. Linked up nicely, held it up well and then put the finishing touch on it with wonderfully calm finish.
Leandro Trossard (Madueke 69’) 6
Good player to have when running down the clock. Held on to it confidently and got back to help Hincapie with Estevao.
