Eze’s First Goal Seals Arsenal’s 2–0 Carabao Cup Win Over Port Vale
Arsenal booked their place in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a hard-fought 2–0 victory over League One side Port Vale at Vale Park on Wednesday evening.
The North Londoners were handed an early boost when Eberechi Eze opened his account for the club in the 8th minute. The goal followed clever build-up play involving Gabriel Martinelli and a dummy from Myles Lewis-Skelly, which left Eze with a simple finish into the net.
Despite dominating possession, reportedly controlling over 78 % in the first half, Arsenal struggled to break down Vale’s defensive shape for much of the match.
It wasn’t until the 86th minute that Arsenal effectively put the tie to bed, when Leandro Trossard curled home a composed finish. The assist came courtesy of a long ball from William Saliba, catching the Port Vale defence off guard.
Arsenal made sweeping changes to their lineup from their Premier League side, with Kepa Arrizabalaga making his debut between the sticks, Christian Nørgaard earning a start, and Bukayo Saka returning from injury.
In the wake of the win, manager Mikel Arteta lauded Eze’s performance but also expressed belief that the forward has more to offer as he adapts to the squad’s dynamics.
Port Vale, for their part, were praised by their manager Darren Moore for their resilience and discipline after conceding so early.
Arsenal’s reward is a home tie against Brighton & Hove Albion in the next round, while their league campaign continues with a trip to Newcastle United this weekend.