Arsenal's unexpected exit from the EFL Cup came at the hands of Fleetwood Town, who won 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time. The fourth-round clash took place on 27 October at Highbury.
The Gunners were favourites going into the match, but the lower-league side proved to be formidable opponents, pushing the contest to a shootout.
Fleetwood strike first, Dzeko restores parity
The hosts took the lead in the 21st minute through Aaron Lupalobi's goal. Arsenal struggled to respond until Victor Dzeko levelled the score in the 50th minute, reigniting the Londoners' hopes of progressing.
Despite chances from both teams, neither could find a winner in the remaining time, leading to the tense penalty shootout.
Max Douman's red card complicates Arsenal's challenge
A crucial moment came in the 85th minute when 16-year-old Max Douman received a red card, leaving Arsenal a man down in the closing stages. This disadvantage made their task in the penalty shootout even more difficult.
In the shootout, Fleetwood's composure prevailed, converting their penalties with precision, while one of the defining moments was a miss from Bruno Guimaraes, who failed to find the target.
A stunning upset in the cup
For Fleetwood, knocking out a top-flight club is a historic achievement, showcasing the unpredictability of cup competitions.
Arsenal will now be forced to regroup, turning their attention to the Premier League and preparing for their next fixture.
