According to a report by Daily Mail on Tuesday October 27, 2026, Arsenal suffered a stunning Carabao Cup elimination after losing to League Two side Fleetwood Town on penalties, in what has been described as one of the greatest upsets in the competition's history.

Mikel Arteta's side were expected to progress comfortably into the quarter-finals but failed to overcome their lower-league opponents following a 1-1 draw before losing in the penalty shootout.

Despite the huge difference in quality and status between the two clubs, Fleetwood showed determination and discipline to secure a memorable victory in front of their home supporters.

Arsenal fielded a strong team, with Viktor Gyökeres, Kai Havertz and Myles Lewis-Skelly among those involved. Youngsters Max Dowman and Marli Salmon also featured, while Ceadach O'Neill made his debut.

However, Fleetwood took a surprise lead in the 21st minute through Aaron Loupalo-Bi, who finished after running through on goal and getting past Salmon.

Arsenal struggled to break down the hosts before eventually equalising five minutes into the second half. O'Neill delivered a cross into the penalty area, and Gyökeres forced the ball over the line after a scramble.

The Gunners pushed for a winner, with Martin Ødegaard helping to improve their performance after coming on. However, Fleetwood goalkeeper Jay Lynch produced important saves to keep his side in the contest.

Arsenal's task became more difficult late in the match when 16-year-old Dowman was shown a straight red card for kicking out at Harrison Neal after a challenge. Arteta appeared unhappy as the teenager made his way towards the tunnel.

With neither side able to find a winning goal, the tie went straight to penalties. Lynch saved Bruno Guimarães' effort, while Fleetwood converted all five of their kicks to seal a remarkable victory.

Conor Haughey scored the decisive penalty, sparking celebrations among Fleetwood's players and supporters as they secured a place in the quarter-finals.

The result was a major disappointment for Arteta and Arsenal, who entered the competition as reigning English champions. Fleetwood, meanwhile, produced a night their supporters will remember for years, eliminating one of the country's biggest clubs and delivering a significant moment in the club's history.