Mikel Arteta praised his Arsenal side for delivering “a perfect ending” to a demanding semi-final battle after Kai Havertz’s stoppage-time strike confirmed the Gunners’ return to the Carabao Cup Final for the first time in eight years.

Arsenal, who carried a narrow 3–2 advantage into the second leg at the Emirates Stadium, were made to work for their place at Wembley as Chelsea set up in a deep defensive shape that limited space throughout a tight contest.

But with the tie still finely balanced going into the closing seconds, substitute Havertz broke free to round Robert Sánchez and send Arsenal through in dramatic fashion.

Arteta admitted the conditions and intensity of the semi-final produced exactly the type of challenge he expected.

“It was a big night and it ended up in a perfect way,” the Arsenal boss said. “We knew it was going to be a really tough one – the conditions make it a real battle. I think we competed so well and we understood what we had to do. It was a game of very, very fine margins.”

Despite Chelsea attempting to swing momentum by introducing Estevão and Cole Palmer, Arsenal maintained their defensive discipline before striking late to put the tie out of reach.

Arteta was clear that the significance of reaching the final extends beyond one night’s celebrations. For a squad competing on multiple fronts, he believes the psychological boost of a cup run can prove decisive during the run‑in.

“The fact that you win that brings confidence, energy and trust at every level. When you do it once, it is easier to make the second one,” Arteta said.

With Arsenal pushing for honours domestically and in Europe, the Spaniard highlighted how important belief is across the whole squad.

“They are more convinced that we can go all the way regardless of who we play against. That is something they have to show every single day.”

Arsenal will now await the winner of Wednesday night’s semi-final between Manchester City and Newcastle United as preparations begin for a Wembley showdown later this month.

Arteta hails Arsenal’s “Perfect night” after late Havertz winner seals Carabao Cup Final spot

Arteta hails Arsenal’s “Perfect night” after late Havertz winner seals Carabao Cup Final spot