Arsenal grabbed a 3-2 victory over Chelsea in a chaotic Carabao Cup semifinal first leg at Stamford Bridge. Ben White and Viktor Gyökeres gave the Gunners a commanding two-goal lead. However, a stunning double from substitute Alejandro Garnacho brought Chelsea roaring back, setting up a tense return leg for Liam Rosenior's new side.

Rosenior's first home game in charge swung on a goalkeeping error and an inspired substitution. Robert Sánchez let a cross slip through his hands for Gyökeres to score, before the manager brought on Garnacho, who immediately halved the deficit. Arsenal’s third goal, scored by Martín Zubimendi, punished more sloppy Chelsea defending.

Garnacho struck again from a corner after Kepa Arrizabalaga failed to punch clear, ensuring the tie remains finely balanced heading into the second leg. Arsenal, known for their set-piece prowess under Mikel Arteta, proved too strong, while Chelsea showed flashes of fight that will give their new manager hope for the comeback.