Arsenal progressed to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Brighton, thanks to goals from Ethan Nwaneri and Bukayo Saka, with the Gunners making history with their youngest-ever starting lineup.
Arsenal made history and progressed to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Brighton, thanks to goals from Ethan Nwaneri and Bukayo Saka. The Gunners made 10 changes to their lineup, with 15-year-old Max Dowman becoming the club’s youngest-ever starting player in a competitive match.
Dowman impressed in his debut, showing spark and creativity on the right wing and causing problems for Brighton’s defence. The teenager was involved in the build-up to Nwaneri’s goal, which came after a fine team move involving Mikel Merino’s sensational backheel and Myles Lewis-Skelly’s cut-back.
Saka, who came on as a substitute, doubled Arsenal’s lead on 76 minutes with a powerful finish after a run from Jurrien Timber. The Gunners dominated the second half, with Kepa Arrizabalaga making crucial saves to keep Brighton at bay.
Brighton had chances to get back into the game, but Arsenal’s defence held firm, with Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie making important blocks. The win marked Arsenal’s 250th match in the Carabao Cup, and their sixth shutout in a row.
The result sets up a quarter-final tie, with Arsenal looking to continue their good form. Next up, they face Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday, November 1, followed by a Champions League trip to Slavia Prague on Tuesday.
