Fearless Fleetwood Stun Arsenal in Historic Carabao Cup Upset

There was only ever one outcome that could be expected, given the league positions, form and pedigree of the two sides.

Fleetwood hosted Arsenal on Tuesday, with 83 places separating the teams. Most of the home fans arrived hoping rather than expecting anything, but the hosts produced a remarkable performance and booked their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-final with a penalty shootout victory over the Gunners.

For the Cod Army, who have travelled from non-league to six promotions in 12 years, the result will be remembered for a long time. Against the reigning Premier League champions, the club from a small seaside town in Lancashire created history and claimed one of the biggest cup upsets ever seen.

Aaron Loupalo-Bi gave the hosts the lead after 21 minutes, but after the break Viktor Gyokeres pulled the visitors level.

Fleetwood were expected to take charge from there, but they remained resolute and benefited from a wasteful performance from Arsenal that included Max Dowman being sent off for kicking out after a robust challenge from Harrison Neal.

Fleetwood, who sit 18th in League Two having won just once in their past eight league games, dared to dream and took the match to penalties, with fans spilling on to the pitch before Conor Haughey’s decisive spot kick.

“The biggest night in the club’s history in terms of opposition coming to town and we’ve managed to beat the champions,” boss Matt Lawlor told Sky Sports in the aftermath of his side’s stunning victory.

“I’m a big football fan and I watch National League all the way through to the Premier League, Championship. So for me it was a tough game to prepare for, but I’m just so glad that the lads have the feeling the way they are and took that performance in to make that town, the club, everyone proud.”

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