The Gunners started the match with a good morale. It was obvious that their 2-1 win against Marseille gave them an excellent energy boost before facing Stoke. Ramsey continued his excellent streak and scored just 5 minutes into the game. Arsenal’s midfielder was quick to react to a poor save by Asmir Begovic who should have handled Özil’s free kick a lot better.
Even though it looked like the odds were against Stoke, they managed to score after Arsenal’s defensive line was caught off guard. Some poor defending from Mertesacker gave Arnautovic the chance to hit a shot, after a great assist by Steven N’Zonzi. The ball bounced off the bar to Cameron who was unmarked and scored an easy goal that could have been avoided by the Gunners considering the way things were going up until then.
The next few moments were clearly tough for Wenger’s team who looked a bit concerned. Stoke stepped up and started dominating for a short period of time.
The 36th minute provided a great moment from the Gunner’s new star, Mesut Özil who managed an excellent cross which gave Mertesacker the chance for redemption. The defender’s header might have not gone in if not for Koscielny. He confused Stoke’s keeper by flying past the ball in an attempt to score.
It was Arsenal’s game from then on. The second half did not have much to offer. A few decent shots from Stoke and some very skillful plays by Özil and Wilshere who seem to get along very well. With 20 minutes to go Sagna manages to score a goal very similar to that of his fellow defender, Per Mertesacker. The cross was again delivered by Mesut Özil.
After the Gunners got their 2 goal advantage, Wenger decided to strengthen the defense and also protect two of his best players. Wilshere and Özil stepped out, being replaced by Monreal and Arteta. Ryo also put in a good effort after replacing Gnarby who was the youngest player on the pitch.
Ramsey had a great chance of scoring during extra time but was denied by Asmir Begovic. The match ended with a well-deserved victory for Arsenal who are now looking forward to facing WBA.