Arsenal vs Chelsea: Gyokeres vs Palmer — One Foot in the Final or Another London Comeback?

Match Analysis 02 February 2026 Hits: 86

It is a huge London night at the Emirates. Arsenal hold a narrow 3-2 lead from the first leg at Stamford Bridge, but this tie is far from done. The Gunners are chasing the first available trophy of the season. Chelsea arrive full of belief, knowing one big performance can flip the script.

Arsenal are having a brilliant 2025–26 campaign. They sit top of the Premier League, finished top of the Champions League league phase, and remain alive in every competition. Mikel Arteta has built a team that knows how to manage big moments. That showed in the first leg, where they scored three times away from home and still left feeling they could have done more.

Chelsea’s story is different, but just as dangerous. Liam Rosenior has sparked something quickly. Six wins from his first seven games has changed the mood around the club. The Blues are playing with confidence again, scoring late goals and showing fight. That 3-2 comeback win over West Ham, sealed in the 92nd minute, says a lot about their current mentality.

Arsenal have the advantage. Chelsea have the momentum. Ninety minutes will decide who goes to Wembley.

Arsenal vs Chelsea: Key Stats

Head-to-head: Arsenal 30 wins, Chelsea 26 wins, 24 draws

First leg: Chelsea 2-3 Arsenal

Arsenal: Scored 3 goals away at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea: Won 5 of their last 6 games in all competitions

Arsenal: Lost just once in their last 6 matches

Chelsea: Winless in their last 10 meetings with Arsenal

Chelsea: Lost their last 3 visits to the Emirates

Photo Credit (Chelsea fc)

What to Expect: Control vs Chaos

Arsenal;

Arsenal will want control. With Zubimendi and Declan Rice at the base of midfield, the Gunners will try to slow the game down and force Chelsea to chase. Viktor Gyökeres was a constant problem in the first leg, and he will again be the focal point. If Saka misses out, Madueke’s direct running on the right becomes key. Arsenal do not need to force the game, but they cannot sit too deep. One goal likely kills the tie.

Chelsea;

Chelsea have no reason to be cautious. They need goals and they have the tools. Cole Palmer, Joao Pedro and Neto give them creativity and speed between the lines, while Enzo Fernandez’s late runs can hurt Arsenal if the midfield opens up. Rosenior’s side will press higher than in the first leg and try to make this uncomfortable early. The risk is leaving space behind, but Chelsea look ready to take that gamble.

Predicted Lineups

Arsenal (4-2-3-1) 🔴⚪: Arrizabalaga; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Odegaard, Martinelli; Gyökeres

Chelsea (4-2-3-1) 🔵: Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Fofana, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Pedro; Delap

Players and Matchups to Watch

Viktor Gyökeres: Scored in the first leg and bullied Chelsea’s centre-backs. He is Arsenal’s outlet under pressure.

Cole Palmer: Chelsea’s main creator. If he finds space between Rice and Zubimendi, Chelsea will create chances.

Declan Rice: This is his type of game. Breaking up play, slowing transitions, and protecting the lead.

Reece James: Fit again and influential. His duel with Martinelli on the left side could swing momentum.