Manchester United booked a place in the Women’s League Cup final for the first time after a tense, error-strewn semi-final at the Emirates that Arsenal will look back on with frustration. A single, avoidable moment of sloppiness at the back gifted the Red Devils the decisive goal, and despite Arsenal’s dominance in possession and chances, they left empty-handed.
A costly mistake and a clinical finish
The match’s only goal arrived like a thief in the night. Arsenal goalkeeper Anneke Borbe misplayed a pass straight to Ellen Wangerheim, who fed a simple chance to Elisabeth Terland for a composed finish. The strike came at the end of a half in which Terland had also been denied a penalty after a heavy challenge from Katie McCabe in the box, an appeal that might have changed the tone of the tie.
Arsenal’s wastefulness proved decisive
For long spells Arsenal looked the more fluent side, carving openings and moving the ball with purpose in United’s final third. Yet the Gunners’ finishing was blunt. Shots flew wide, and clear opportunities were squandered — a recurring theme this season that resurfaced at the worst possible time. Smilla Holmberg’s wayward effort summed up a night when composure deserted Renee Slegers’ side, and a second-half red card for Olivia Smith after a reckless foul further dimmed their hopes.
United’s resilience and discipline pay off
Manchester United rode their luck at times but showed the discipline required in knockout football. They soaked up Arsenal pressure, defended with organization, and struck when the chance presented itself. Substitute Melvine Malard should have sealed the tie when one-on-one with Borbe but blazed over, yet United’s defensive resolve and clinical edge in the solitary moment that mattered were enough to secure victory.
What the result means
United will face holders Chelsea, who edged Manchester City 1-0, in the final at Ashton Gate on Sunday, 15 March. For Arsenal, the defeat extends a worrying trend: the seven-time League Cup winners have now missed the final in consecutive seasons. The loss raises questions about finishing and timing for a side that often dominates territory but struggles to convert dominance into goals.
Looking ahead
Arsenal travel to Chelsea on Saturday at 12:30 GMT, a fixture that offers immediate redemption or further frustration.
Manchester United head to Aston Villa on Sunday at 11:55 GMT, carrying momentum and the chance to sharpen their game ahead of the final.
In a contest defined by fine margins, one sloppy pass and a lack of ruthlessness in front of goal decided the tie. The League Cup final now promises a fresh chapter, with United chasing history and Arsenal left to regroup and rediscover their cutting edge.
