Arsenal claimed a vital 3-2 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the first leg of their League Cup semi-final, but the match ended on a bitter note as tensions rose between key players at the final whistle.
The final whistle sparked a sudden confrontation in the center of the pitch between Arsenal’s match-winner Martin Zubimendi and Chelsea captain Enzo Fernandez.
Enzo Fernandes and Martin Zubimendi involved in post-match altercation
The two midfielders, who had been engaged in a tactical battle all evening, were seen in a heated exchange of words which quickly escalated into a physical confrontation.
The footage shows Fernandez looking particularly aggrieved, having to be restrained by Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior as he attempted to confront the Spain international.
While the exact trigger for the argument remains unclear, the intensity of the match, which saw several warnings and accusations of time wasting, clearly left lingering bitterness.
Liam Rosenior in the thick of things as Enzo Fernandez faces Martin Zubimendi! ? pic.twitter.com/yJn3lDHHjK
– Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) January 14, 2026
Zubimendi, whose 71st minute goal proved to be the winner, eventually departed with his teammates, but the incident added a layer of personal rivalry to the next return match at the Emirates.
Chelsea have chance in draw thanks to Garnacho double
Despite the defeat and post-match altercation, Chelsea remained firmly in the competition thanks to an inspired second-half cameo from Alejandro Garnacho.
With Arsenal looking cruising after goals from Ben White and Viktor Gyökeres, Rosenior turned to the young winger to salvage a result from his first home game in charge.
Garnacho responded with clinical efficiency, scoring twice to keep the Blues’ Wembley dreams alive.
His first came in the 57th minute after a smart cross from Pedro Neto, and his second followed in the 83rd minute, sending a half-volley off a loose ball into the box to make it 3-2.
Although Zubimendi’s goal briefly restored Arsenal’s two-goal lead, Garnacho’s brace ensured Chelsea only needed a one-goal win in north London to force the tie into extra time.
