Drama in the League Cup: Crystal Palace fails in the penalty shootout!

Drama in the League Cup: Crystal Palace fails in the penalty shootout!

Crystal Palace suffered a dramatic defeat in the quarter-finals of the English Football League Cup. Coach Oliver Glasner's team lost 7-8 on penalties against Arsenal on December 24, 2025, after the game ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time Small newspaper reported. Maxence Lacroix's own goal, which gave the opponent the lead, was particularly bitter for Crystal Palace.

Arsenal, the Premier League leaders, benefited from this weakness. Lacroix himself scored the own goal from a Bukayo Saka corner, which fueled the Arsenal fans' spirits. Despite this early lead, Crystal Palace showed a strong reaction. Marc Guehi equalized in the fifth minute of stoppage time when he headed in from Jefferson Lerma's cross, sending the game to a penalty shootout.

Penalty shootouts and decisive moments

In the penalty shootout that followed, both teams showed strong nerves and converted their first seven penalties. Kepa Arrizabalaga, the Arsenal goalkeeper, finally saved Lacroix's decisive shot, ensuring Arsenal's place in the semi-finals. William Saliba scored the final penalty for the Gunners, making the score 8-7, reports Independent.

Arsenal now face rivals Chelsea in the semi-finals. The first two games will take place on January 14th and February 3rd, 2026. The course of the game illustrates the importance of the League Cup in current football events, especially in a league as competitive as the Premier League.

The Premier League itself, founded in February 1992, is the top football league in England and includes 20 clubs. It has developed significantly over the years and is known for its exciting competitions and records. Manchester United holds the record with 13 title wins, while the latest incidents involving Arsenal and Crystal Palace reflect the dynamism and intensity of the league Wikipedia explained.