Southampton Upset Arsenal to Reach FA Cup Semi-Finals

Southampton’s Championship side delivered a stunning 2‑1 victory over Premier League leaders Arsenal at St Mary’s, securing a place in the FA Cup semi‑finals at Wembley.

First Half: Stewart’s Early Lead

Midfielder Ross Stewart opened the scoring in the 35th minute, slipping a precise pass to a waiting striker who slotted the ball past Kepa Arrizabalaga. Arsenal pressed but were unable to equalise before the break.

Second Half: Arsenal’s Response and Saints’ Late Winner

Viktor Gyökeres restored parity in the 66th minute, sparking a brief flurry of chances for the Gunners. However, substitute Shea Charles, on a short burst of pace, collected a clever pass from Tom Fellows and fired a low shot into the bottom left corner in the 85th minute, reclaiming the lead for Southampton.

Implications

The win caps a remarkable cup run for the south‑coast club, their first semi‑final appearance since 2021, while Arsenal, despite a nine‑point Premier League lead, face growing criticism after their fifth defeat of the campaign. The semi‑final at Wembley looms later this month, offering Saints a chance to echo the historic 1976 triumph.

Looking Ahead

Southampton will now turn their focus to a tough semi‑final opponent, while Arsenal must regroup quickly ahead of key league fixtures that will determine whether their domestic dominance can be sustained.