KATHMANDU: In a dramatic first-leg clash of the Carabao Cup semi-finals, Arsenal defeated Chelsea 3-2, gaining a crucial advantage ahead of the second leg.

Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez’s costly errors proved decisive, while Alejandro Garnacho kept Chelsea’s hopes alive with a brace.

The game’s opening goal came in the 7th minute when Sánchez failed to claim a corner from Declan Rice, allowing Ben White to head Arsenal into an early lead.

Arsenal doubled their advantage in the 49th minute after Sánchez miscontrolled a cross, enabling Víctor Gyökeres to score.

Chelsea fought back in the 57th minute as Garnacho found the net, but Arsenal restored their two-goal lead through Martin Zubimendi in the 71st minute.

With just three minutes remaining, Kepa Arrizabalaga’s clearance fell to Garnacho, who volleyed home his second, setting up a tense finish.

Despite late chances for both sides, no further goals were scored. Arsenal now take a one-goal lead into the second leg, scheduled for February 3 at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal remain unbeaten in their last 10 matches, while Chelsea have managed just three wins in their last 13 games.