Southampton FC produced a stunning upset to knock Arsenal FC out of the FA Cup with a dramatic 2-1 quarterfinal victory at St Mary’s, thanks to a late strike from Shea Charles.
Charles came off the bench to fire home in the 85th minute, sealing Southampton’s place in the semifinals at Wembley and ending Arsenal’s hopes of a domestic treble.
Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, entered the tie as overwhelming favorites despite recent setbacks, but struggled to impose themselves against a fearless Southampton side.
The hosts took the lead in the 35th minute when Ross Stewart capitalized on defensive hesitation to score, sending the home crowd into celebration.
Arsenal responded after the break, with Viktor Gyökeres finishing sharply in the 68th minute to bring the visitors level following good work from Kai Havertz.
Despite late pressure from Arsenal, Southampton remained dangerous and found the decisive moment when Charles coolly finished to secure a famous win.
The result marks only Arsenal’s fifth defeat of the season and raises further questions after consecutive cup exits, while Southampton continue their push for promotion and now turn their attention to a Wembley semifinal.
The victory also rekindles memories of Southampton’s historic FA Cup triumph in 1976, as the Championship side dreams of another unlikely run.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
