- Arsenal secured an EFL Cup semi-final spot with a 3-2 comeback win over Crystal Palace, inspired by Gabriel Jesus' stunning hat-trick at the Emirates
- Substitutes Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka were pivotal in the turnaround, setting up Jesus’ decisive goals
- Mikel Arteta’s tactical substitution after halftime, introducing Martin Ødegaard, transformed the game’s play entirely
Premier League title contenders Arsenal staged a thrilling comeback to defeat Crystal Palace 3-2 and secure their spot in the EFL Cup semi-finals, with Gabriel Jesus stealing the show at the Emirates.
The ex-city man and Brazilian forward ended his long goal drought at home with a sensational second-half hat-trick, reigniting his form and earning high praise from manager Mikel Arteta.
The game began in a fast-paced manner, with Palace striking first through Jean-Philippe Mateta. The forward capitalised on Arsenal’s hesitant defence to give the visitors the lead within four minutes.
Arsenal, despite making eight changes to their lineup, struggled to find rhythm in the first half, leaving Mikel Arteta visibly frustrated on the sidelines.
In response, Arteta brought on Martin Ødegaard after the break, a decision that changed the play of the game. The Norwegian midfielder made an instant impact, threading a perfect pass to Jesus, who slotted home to bring Arsenal level.
Moments later, substitute Bukayo Saka provided another assist, setting up Jesus for a composed finish past Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson to make it 2-1 in the 73rd minute.
As Palace pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Arsenal capitalised on the spaces left behind. Ødegaard once again turned provider, releasing Jesus to complete his hat-trick with a clinical strike. It marked a remarkable turnaround for the striker, who had not scored at the Emirates in over a year.
Former Arsenal forward Eddie Nketiah gave the home crowd a brief scare with a late header to make it 3-2. However, Arsenal maintained their composure to see out the match and advance to the next round.
In a post-match interview, Arteta expressed his delight with Jesus’ performance, describing it as an important moment for both the player and the team,
“I’m so pleased for him, it’s been a long period for him without goals. To score three today, with the quality of the finishes, was fantastic. He looked really sharp, and it’s great for the team to have someone of his quality to rely on.”
With a psychological edge over Palace, whom they face in the Premier League on Saturday, December 21, Arsenal will await the semi-final draw. For Jesus, the hat-trick could serve as a turning point in his season and hopefully, he capitalises on the opportunity.
Arsenal eye Roberto Olabe as Edu's replacement: What it means for the club’s future
Previously, TheRadar reported that Arsenal are reportedly in advanced negotiations to appoint Real Sociedad’s director of football, Roberto Olabe, as the successor to Edu Gaspar, who shocked fans by resigning earlier last month.
Edu’s departure, a move to join Nottingham Forest’s multi-club group, left a major gap in Arsenal’s management structure. The Brazilian’s role was widely credited as pivotal in transforming the Gunners into Premier League title contenders under Mikel Arteta.
