By Islam El-Sakka
Fleetwood Town, currently 18th in League Two, produced the biggest shock in Carabao Cup history by defeating Premier League champions Arsenal 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the fourth round. The result sees the Cod Army reach the quarter-finals despite sitting 84 places below the Gunners in the English football pyramid.
Fleetwood's Historic Win
Fleetwood took a surprise lead in the 21st minute through Aaron Loupalo-Bi against a much-changed Arsenal side. Viktor Gyokeres equalised shortly after half-time following the introduction of Martin Odegaard, but the visitors could not find a winner despite sustained pressure. Goalkeeper Jay Lynch made a crucial save to deny Ben White, sending the tie to a shoot-out where Fleetwood converted all five penalties, with Lynch saving from Bruno Guimaraes and Conor Haughey scoring the decisive kick.
Arteta's Reaction and Dowman Red Card
Arsenal's frustration boiled over when 16-year-old Max Dowman was sent off for kicking out at an opponent after enduring a heavy challenge. Manager Mikel Arteta revealed he angrily reminded Dowman of "something we discussed already before the match" as the teenager left the pitch. Dowman will now serve a three-match Premier League suspension, starting with Sunday's trip to Liverpool, further depleting Arsenal's attacking options alongside the injured Bukayo Saka and the doubtful Noni Madueke.
Fleetwood Manager and Goalkeeper React
Fleetwood boss Matt Lawlor described the night as the biggest in the club's history, admitting his side had not practiced penalties because they did not expect the tie to reach a shoot-out. Goalkeeper Jay Lynch, named man of the match, said the team drew inspiration from Grimsby Town's Carabao Cup victory over Manchester United last season, adding that his voice had gone from organising the defence throughout the game.
Arsenal Injury Concerns Ahead of Liverpool
Arteta confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori, Declan Rice and Noni Madueke all missed the Fleetwood match due to fitness issues. Rice was withdrawn against Everton with a problem, while Madueke is nursing an ankle injury. The absences leave Arsenal short of options for the crucial Premier League clash at Anfield.
