Liam Rosenior acknowledged that Chelsea’s defensive mistakes led to their 3-2 EFL Cup semi-final defeat to Arsenal.
Chelsea’s new manager cited sloppy marking and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s error for Arsenal’s second goal as costly mistakes.
“We paid the price for those mistakes,” Rosenior said. “Disappointed to concede from a corner and the third goal. We were right back in the game, but we need to perform better individually.” Chelsea’s struggles were evident, with Rosenior fielding a depleted squad due to injuries and illness.
Alejandro Garnacho’s late brace gave Chelsea hope, but Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi also scored. Rosenior refused to blame Sanchez, praising his outstanding save at 3-1. “Rob’s a very good goalkeeper,” he said.
Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta valued his team’s performance against strong opponents. “We had massive chances to score the fourth, but they created a chance and scored,” he said. The Gunners are now unbeaten in 10 games, chasing multiple titles.
Arteta won’t take Arsenal’s lead for granted, knowing Chelsea will fight back at the Emirates. “It’s just half-time,” he said. “We know the big fight ahead.” Arsenal lead the Premier League and are chasing Champions League and FA Cup glory.
Rosenior’s Chelsea face Brentford next, hoping to recover from the defeat. Arsenal’s next game is against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.
