It wasn't quite the fairy-tale evening for Sunderland supporters in the capital but what a journey it's been.
The Black Cats saw off Blackpool and Queens Park Rangers in memorable nights on their route to the Quarter-Final, and although no red and white supporter expected a result against Arsenal last night, they can be proud of their side's efforts.
Backed by 5,200 supporters at the Emirates, Lee Johnson's side put in a brave performance against an impressive Arsenal side.
The Wearsiders stuck to their high pressing philosophy and caused the Premier League outfit a number of problems going forward, which, on another day, could have resulted in a very different scoreline.
Elliot Embleton cannoned an effort of the post and Carl Winchester flashed a low drive just wide of Bernd Leno's post.
The final score did somewhat flatter the Gunners - who were still very impressive - but Sunderland were still well in the tie at the halfway stage.
Nathan Broadhead's first-half strike gave the Wearsiders a lifeline just before the break, but he was forced off the field of play shortly after grabbing Sunderland's only goal of the evening.
The quality of Mikel Arteta's side ultimately shone through in the second-half and although history will only remember the final result, the occasion will stay long in the memory of Sunderland supporters.
The Black Cats have not had much to cheer about in recent years, and, throwing Covid-19 into the midst, games like last night are a perfect opportunity to take stock.
Trips to the Emirates were once a regular day out for the Mackems, but they now act as a timely reminder of how great Sunderland once were, and how great they can become once again.
Truth be told, the final scoreline against the Gunners does not matter.
A return to the Premier League is the long term aim for Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and Sunderland supporters, but the journey back to the promised land should not be something taken for granted.
Of course, there is a burning desire to get out of League One and it remains the priority for Johnson's side, but last night's cup clash acts as one chapter in 2021/22 season.
There is plenty of time for Sunderland to write their own history, and while Covid-19 may yet have a say, the rendition of 'Wise men say' which echoed round the Emirates in the second-half and on the brink of full-time, is a timely reminder that football is nothing without the fans.
