Mikel Arteta gave a number of his Hale End academy young stars a chance to impress. The decision paid off, with Ethan Nwaneri’s standout performance highlighting Arsenal’s future talent. His two goals on either side of halftime left fans buzzing with excitement.
Arsenal advanced to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a dominant 5-1 win over Bolton at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. Ethan Nwaneri, the 17-year-old sensation, stole the show scoring a record two goals in his full debut.
Nwaneri made history by becoming the youngest player to start for Arsenal at 17 years and 72 days. His composure and skill on the ball made his impact felt from the start.
Jack Porter’s Record-Breaking Start
Arteta made several changes to the starting lineup, including giving 16-year-old goalkeeper Jack Porter his debut. With first-choice keeper David Raya injured, Porter became the youngest player ever to start for Arsenal in the absence of the cup-tied Neto. Porter showcased maturity and kept Bolton at bay for most of the match, allowing only one goal.
Arsenal’s defense led by Riccardo Calafiori and Sterling was also solid. They absorbed early pressure from Bolton, who looked eager to cause an upset. Yet, once Rice put Arsenal ahead, it was evident that the Gunners were in control.
Bolton’s Brief Comeback and Arsenal’s Response
Bolton managed to pull one back through Aaron Collins, who briefly gave the visitors hope. However, that goal only spurred Arsenal to shift gears, with Nwaneri and Sterling taking control. Nwaneri’s second goal came after a Bolton defensive error, as they attempted to play out from the back. Rice pounced, setting up Nwaneri for a calm finish.
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Sterling’s debut goal and Kai Havertz’s late strike sealed the win, pushing Arsenal comfortably into the next round.
Arsenal Eye Next Round of the Carabao Cup.
With this win, Arsenal’s journey in the Carabao Cup continues. Arsenal will now play Preston North End in the Carabao Cup fourth round. The game will take place at the Championship side’s Deepdale ground, which Arsenal last visited in 2017 and won the FA Cup thanks to an 89th-minute Olivier Giroud goal.
The Gunners have only won Carabao Cup competition twice, with their last victory coming in 1993 under George Graham.
The fourth-round ties will take place on the week commencing October 28, with finalised fixture details to be announced in due course.
Arsenal now shifts focus to their next Premier League match against Leicester City.
