Sports
Arsenal Exit Carabao Cup After Penalty Shootout Loss to Fleetwood
By Ahmad Salah
Mikel Arteta described Arsenal’s Carabao Cup fourth‑round defeat as a "very sad day" after the Gunners were eliminated by Fleetwood Town, a fourth‑tier club, in a penalty shootout. Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live and quoted by Tribuna, Arteta congratulated Fleetwood on reaching the next round and said he could not find fault with his players’ attitude or commitment. He noted that the team had shown determination from the start and had even played with ten men after conceding a poor early goal, which he said gave the opposition encouragement. Arteta added that Arsenal created chances and shots that should have led to more goals, but when opportunities were not taken, the team could not advance. The match ended 1‑1 after Arsenal equalised in the second half, but Fleetwood won the shootout 5‑3, with Bruno Guimaraes’ penalty saved and the hosts converting all of theirs. Arsenal were knocked out of the competition and will not progress further in the tournament.
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score of the match before the penalty shootout?
The match ended 1-1 after Arsenal equalised in the second half.
How did Fleetwood win the penalty shootout?
Fleetwood won the shootout 5-3, converting all of their penalties while Arsenal’s Bruno Guimaraes penalty was saved.
What did Mikel Arteta say about the team's attitude?
Arteta said he could not find fault with his players’ attitude or commitment.