Arsenal’s quadruple dreams vanish after second cup exit in 14 days

Arsenal were knocked out of the FA Cup after a late goal from Shea Charles secured a dramatic 2–1 victory for Southampton at St Mary’s.

The result represents Arsenal’s second consecutive cup defeat following their recent loss to Manchester City in the EFL Cup final.

For Mikel Arteta’s side, the quarter-final exit also ends hopes of lifting another FA Cup trophy this season.

Arsenal arrived on the south coast hoping the international break had helped them recover from the Wembley disappointment.

Despite controlling possession for long periods, the visitors struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined Southampton side.

The Championship club entered the tie on a long unbeaten run and immediately showed the confidence that had carried them deep into the competition.

Southampton’s direct attacking approach repeatedly caused problems for Arsenal’s defence during the first half.

The hosts eventually broke the deadlock in the 35th minute through Ross Stewart.

A lofted cross from the right by James Bree caught the Arsenal back line off guard.

Ben White misjudged the flight of the ball, allowing Stewart to control and finish calmly past goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Southampton continued to threaten after the break and nearly doubled their lead.

Leo Scienza struck the crossbar with a curling effort while Tom Fellows fired another opportunity over the bar.

Arteta attempted to change the momentum with a triple substitution midway through the second half.

Viktor Gyokeres was introduced alongside Noni Madueke and Riccardo Calafiori.

The changes quickly produced an equaliser for Arsenal in the 68th minute.

A precise pass from Gabriel Magalhaes released Kai Havertz inside the penalty area.

Havertz cut the ball back across goal for Gyokeres, who finished confidently to restore parity.

Arsenal briefly appeared to be building momentum after the equaliser.

However, Southampton produced the decisive moment in the closing stages.

A forward move involving Fellows ended with substitute Charles receiving the ball just inside the area.

The midfielder struck a composed finish into the bottom corner to send the home supporters into celebration.

Arsenal pushed forward in search of another equaliser but were unable to break through again.

The defeat sends Southampton into the FA Cup semi-finals and extends their impressive run of form.

For Arsenal, the loss marks a disappointing night and another setback in a difficult fortnight for Arteta’s side.

The post Arsenal’s quadruple dreams vanish after second cup exit in 14 days first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.