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Updated 18/12/2024 at 21:39 GMT
Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Carabao Cup Quarter Final match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at Emirates Stadium on December 18, 2024 in London, England.
Image credit: Getty Images
A second half hat-trick for Gabriel Jesus saw Arsenal battle back from a goal behind to beat Crystal Palace 3-2.
After making eight changes, Mikel Arteta was under pressure after Jean-Philippe Mateta muscled his way through the hesitant defence to put Palace ahead with less than four minutes on the clock.
Arteta became increasingly frustrated with his side during the first half and introduced Martin Odegaard at the break.
The Norwegian midfielder helped to turn the game, feeding the ball through for Jesus to pull his side level.
Fellow substitute Bukayo Saka was next to assist striker Jesus, who clipped the ball over goalkeeper Dean Henderson to give his side a 73rd-minute lead.
With Palace pushing forward, Odegaard was able to release Jesus in on goal for his hat-trick. The Arsenal striker came into the game having not scored at the Emirates in 367 days, but showed no hesitation in sealing the win.
Former Gunner Eddie Nketiah gave his old side a late scare by heading a goal back. However, Arsenal showed the composure to see off the match and book their semi-final spot.
Arsenal will await the semi-final draw and have landed a psychological blow over Palace who they meet in the Premier League, at Selhurst Park, on Saturday.
Talking Point – Arsenal take step towards elusive silverware
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Mikel Arteta worried Arsenal fans by making eight changes from the side that drew against Everton at the weekend.
Their fears came to fruition as Mateta put Palace into an early lead and the visitors looked comfortable during the first half of the London derby clash.
With Arteta having only won one major trophy during his tenure at the club and Arsenal having now won the League Cup for 31 years, the Spanish boss quickly made changes.
Arteta turned to Odegaard at half-time and the Norwegian grabbed control of the match and opened the Palace defence.
Odegaard provided two assists and fellow substitute Saka the other, as their eloquent through balls released Jesus for the three crucial goals.