League Two side Fleetwood Town eliminates Arsenal from League Cup

On October 27, 2026, English Premier League champions Arsenal suffered a major upset in the fourth round of the League Cup, losing to fourth-tier side Fleetwood Town. The match, which took place at Highbury, ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time, leading to a penalty shootout where Fleetwood prevailed 5-3.

Fleetwood Town took the lead in the 21st minute through a goal by Aaron Lupalo-Bee. Despite Arsenal’s persistent pressure and attempts from players including Gyokeres and Timber, the visitors were forced to play the remainder of the match with ten men following an unspecified disciplinary action. Arsenal struggled to overcome the defensive efforts of the League Two side during regulation time. In the ensuing penalty shootout, Arsenal’s Bruno Guimaraes missed his attempt, and goalkeeper Illan Meslier failed to stop the majority of the Fleetwood penalties, sealing the elimination of Mikel Arteta’s side from the competition.

This loss marks a historic outcome for Fleetwood Town, which faced the reigning English champions for the first time. The defeat represents a significant setback for Arsenal’s cup campaign this season, ending their journey prematurely against lower-league opposition.