Arsenal’s new generation delivered a dazzling display on Wednesday night, earning a 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion to book their place in the EFL Cup quarter-finals at the Emirates Stadium, according to BBC Sport.
Manager Mikel Arteta made sweeping changes to his starting lineup, with 10 alterations from the side that beat Crystal Palace. Among those handed starts were 15-year-old Max Dowman, who became the youngest Arsenal player ever to start a competitive match, and 17-year-old debutant Andre Harriman-Annous. Despite their youth, both players impressed with maturity and composure beyond their years.
After a tight first half, Arsenal found their breakthrough in the 57th minute. A clever backheel from Mikel Merino released Myles Lewis-Skelly, who cut the ball back for Ethan Nwaneri to slot home neatly into the far corner — his second goal in as many EFL Cup games.
The Gunners doubled their lead in the 76th minute, when substitute Bukayo Saka pounced on a rebound after Harriman-Annous’s effort was saved, firing into an empty net to seal the win.
Brighton had early chances, with Georginio Rutter forcing a fine stop from Kepa Arrizabalaga, while Stefanos Tzimas squandered a close-range opportunity. But the visitors faded after the interval, unable to break down Arsenal’s organised and energetic defence.
It was a night to remember for young Dowman, who impressed with his direct dribbling and fearless attacking play before being substituted after 70 minutes to a standing ovation.
The victory extends Arsenal’s unbeaten run to 11 matches in all competitions and marks their sixth consecutive clean sheet, underlining their growing consistency.
Next up, Arteta’s men will face Crystal Palace in the quarter-finals, as they continue their push for a first League Cup title since 1993.
