Arsenal were knocked out of the League Cup in a stunning upset by League Two side Fleetwood, losing 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The loss, which ended Arsenal's 11-game winning run, marked one of the most humiliating defeats in the club's history. In the shoot-out, Arsenal's Bruno Guimaraes' penalty was saved by Fleetwood's Jay Lynch, and Conor Haughey scored the decisive goal for Fleetwood. Mikel Arteta's decision to make nine changes for the match against Liverpool was questioned, as Arsenal's young players struggled, including Arsenal's 16-year-old Max Dowman, who was sent off for violent conduct. Fleetwood's manager Matt Lawlor celebrated his team's victory joyfully, and the club's fans were ecstatic, flooding the pitch to celebrate. Despite being in 18th place in League Two, Fleetwood had faced and lost to Exeter and Cheltenham in their previous two league games. Their first-half goal from Aaron Loupalo-Bi was a surprise, as they managed to avoid the intimidation of facing Arsenal, who entered the match as Premier League champions. The unexpected victory ranks among Fleetwood's greatest achievements, with manager Lawlor and his players overwhelmed with emotion following the match.
Arsenal monopolized possession after Loupalo-Bi's opening goal but struggled to break through Fleetwood's defense, leading to Arteta's halftime substitution of Martin Odegaard and Viktor Gyokeres' equalizer. Gyokeres' goal came from close range after wrestling with his marker and poking the ball past Lynch. Tragedy struck for Arsenal in the 85th minute when 16-year-old Max Dowman was sent off for kicking out at Harrison Neal. The shoot-out test was ultimately won by Fleetwood, with Haughey's decisive goal sealing Arsenal's historic loss. The match also showcased the unorthodox tactics and immense morale of Fleetwood, whose nickname 'Cod Army' is a reflection of their commitment and spirit.