Manchester United reached the Women’s League Cup final for the first time in their history after squeezing past Arsenal in a tense semi-final that hinged on a costly mistake.
The decisive moment came late in the first half when Arsenal goalkeeper Anneke Borbe gifted possession to Ellen Wangerheim. The United forward made no mistake in setting up Elisabeth Terland, who calmly slotted home what proved to be the only goal of the game.
Arsenal Waste Chances and Lose Control
Arsenal will be left frustrated by another night where dominance did not translate into goals. They moved the ball well and spent long spells in United’s half, but their finishing repeatedly let them down.
Terland was also denied a first-half penalty when she went to ground under pressure from Katie McCabe, while Arsenal’s task became even harder after Olivia Smith picked up a second yellow card for a needless foul high up the pitch.
Despite creating the better openings, the Gunners rarely tested United keeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, with wayward shooting and a lack of composure undermining their efforts.
United Stay Patient and Take Their Chance
United were far from fluent but showed discipline and resilience throughout. Often pinned back, they stayed organised and waited for opportunities to counter, trusting their defensive shape to carry them through.
Substitute Melvine Malard had a golden chance to double the lead when clean through on goal but fired over the bar. It mattered little in the end, as United held firm to seal the win.
Final Date Set as Arsenal Miss Out Again
United will now face holders Chelsea, who beat Manchester City 1-0 in the other semi-final, in the final at Ashton Gate on Sunday, 15 March.
For Arsenal, defeat means a second consecutive season without reaching the League Cup final — a bitter outcome for a side that once again paid the price for a lack of cutting edge when it mattered most.
