According to a report by Flashscore on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, Arsenal struggled to make their possession count in the first half of their Carabao Cup encounter against Fleetwood, going into the break trailing 1-0 after Aaron Loupalo Bi scored in the 21st minute.

Despite controlling 75 per cent of possession, the Gunners failed to create enough clear chances to trouble their opponents. Several players struggled to deliver the attacking quality needed to break down Fleetwood's defence.

1. Max Dowman

Max Dowman struggled to make an impact during the opening 45 minutes. In the 10th minute, he delivered a free kick towards Piero Hincapie, whose close range header went over the crossbar. Dowman took another free kick in the 23rd minute, but Fleetwood's defence cleared the danger. His biggest missed opportunity came in the 20th minute when he collected a loose ball inside the penalty area but fired wide of the left post.

2. Kai Havertz

Kai Havertz missed opportunities to help Arsenal get back into the game. In the 39th minute, the German forward unleashed a powerful effort, but a Fleetwood defender blocked the shot. He had another chance a minute later after meeting an excellent cross inside the box. However, his header sailed over the crossbar, allowing Fleetwood to preserve their lead.

3. Jurrien Timber

Jurrien Timber struggled to provide the attacking threat Arsenal needed from the right flank. His attempted pass into the penalty area in the 16th minute was intercepted by a Fleetwood defender. Earlier, in the 12th minute, his cross was comfortably cleared by the opposition defence. Timber also strayed offside in the 42nd minute, bringing another Arsenal attack to an end.

4. Ceadach O'Neill

Ceadach O'Neill failed to make the most of his set piece opportunities during the first half. His corner in the 31st minute did not reach an Arsenal teammate, allowing a Fleetwood defender to clear the ball. Although he helped the Gunners maintain pressure, his delivery lacked the accuracy needed to create a serious threat for the home side.

Arsenal will need a stronger attacking performance in the second half if they are to overturn Fleetwood's advantage and avoid an unexpected setback in the Carabao Cup.