Late Havertz Strike Sends Arsenal to Carabao Cup Final, Teasing Chelsea Fans

Arsenal reach the Carabao Cup final with late Havertz strike

The German forward Kai Havertz delivered a late, sly taunt to Chelsea fans after his stoppage-time goal sealed a 1-0 win for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg at the Emirates on Tuesday night.

Arsenal had already secured the tie by taking a 3-2 victory in the first leg at Stamford Bridge, meaning the Gunners won 4-2 on aggregate.

Drama, celebrations and final preparations

Havertz's 90+7 strike was followed by a celebration that included pointing to the Arsenal crest on his shirt, a message that will feel pointed to his former club and their supporters. Havertz joined Arsenal in 2023 after three seasons with Chelsea (2020-2023). He even scored Chelsea's late winner in the 2021 Champions League final against Manchester City.

The German has faced some fan criticism since moving, but Arsenal now march toward the Wembley final scheduled for March 22. They will face the winner of Manchester City vs Newcastle; City led 2-0 after the first leg, with the return to come at the Etihad.

In total, Arsenal advance to their ninth League Cup final, aiming to lift a trophy last won decades ago; fans may be enjoying the irony as much as the football.

Punchlines:

Sniper joke 1: If timing is everything, Havertz just bought a time machine—right to the goal line.

Sniper joke 2: Chelsea fans: "We hate goodbyes." Havertz: "Relax, I’m just borrowing the crest for a moment."