Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus scored his first home goals in over a year, netting a stunning hat-trick to lead his team to a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Crystal Palace, securing their place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals. The Brazilian striker's performance was especially significant, as only days earlier he had announced the joyful news of his partner expecting another child, which he described as providing him with motivation for the match.
The match kicked off on December 18 at the Emirates Stadium, where Arsenal faced an early setback. Crystal Palace took the lead just four minutes in, with Jean-Philippe Mateta capitalizing on defensive errors from Jakub Kiwior to score the opener with the team's first shot. Despite Mikel Arteta fielding a significantly altered lineup, changes fell flat during the first half, leaving Arsenal fans anxious as the game seemed to slip away.
Notable changes were made by Arteta as he opted for eight alterations from the squad which played out to a goalless draw against Everton just days prior. The second half, observable after the introduction of captain Martin Odegaard and star player Bukayo Saka, saw the Gunners transform and regain control over the match.
After Raheem Sterling hit the bar from close range, Odegaard provided the breakthrough the team needed with two exceptional assists, first setting up Jesus for the equalizer. "It feels amazing," Gabriel Jesus commented post-match. He continued, "Obviously, the first half wasn’t our best, but still, we did our job, we created more... Martin put in two amazing balls, and I could finish the action." His confidence showed as he moved effortlessly, scoring his second after being played through by Saka, finding the bottom corner with precision.
With the match firmly turning Arsenal's way, Jesus completed his hat-trick shortly afterward—another beaut of a goal from through balls provided by Odegaard. "I’m so pleased for him," stated Arteta, reflecting on his forward’s much-needed goals after such a lengthy dry spell. "It’s been a long period for him without goals and today scoring three types of goals was great for him and the team.”
Despite Arsenal’s late scare when former Gunner Eddie Nketiah netted for Palace, the team held on to their lead, much to the relief of the home crowd. This victory not only marks the Gunners' advancement to the next round of the Carabao Cup but also revitalizes hope for their league goals as they continue to navigate through the season.
Jesus's goals came at the right time, with Arsenal hoping to regain their form after recent disappointing performances. The striker stressed the importance of maintaining this momentum during his post-match interview: “If you want to challenge for [starts], we have to keep scoring. It's not easy if it was, there would be many strikers.” His ambition is just as clear: “I came here to win the Premier League and this season I want to win.”
Looking forward, Arsenal will face Crystal Palace again just days later, this time in the league at Selhurst Park, where Jesus will be eager to replicate his success. “They have quality players, it will be another war, and we have to try to win the game,” explained the forward about the challenge awaiting the team.
Mikel Arteta is also optimistic, hoping Jesus's Carabao Cup hat-trick can act as the catalyst for consistent performances in the Premier League. “It's now about consistency,” Arteta stated. “It's a moment of spark… We need to give him more chances.” With the recent fixture schedule promising to be favorable, it could be pivotal for Arsenal's title challenge if Jesus maintains his scoring form.
Arsenal’s fans have reason to be hopeful as they anticipate what lies ahead. After securing their spot for the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup and showcasing resilience against Crystal Palace, there’s belief the team can gather the required momentum through this period and minimize the gap needed to turn their season’s fortunes around.
