Eberechi Eze netted his first goal in Arsenal colours to inspire a 2-0 victory over Port Vale, sealing the Gunners’ place in the League Cup last 16 alongside Manchester City, Tottenham, and Newcastle on Wednesday night.
Mikel Arteta rang the changes from Sunday’s draw with City, handing starts to Eze, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli among nine alterations.
The £68 million summer signing from Crystal Palace made his mark within eight minutes, slotting home after a clever flick from Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Despite Arsenal’s dominance, Port Vale nearly snatched an equaliser when Devante Cole, son of Manchester United legend Andy Cole, fired narrowly over.
The tie was finally settled late on when Leandro Trossard rifled a low strike into the corner.
Elsewhere, Phil Foden produced a sparkling display for Manchester City, scoring one and assisting another in a 2-0 win at Huddersfield.
The midfielder drove home the opener before setting up Savinho, who smashed in the second 15 minutes from time. Pep Guardiola, who made nine changes, opted to rest Erling Haaland for the tie.
Holders Newcastle cruised past League One leaders Bradford with a 4-1 win at St James’ Park. Joelinton and William Osula each bagged a brace as the Magpies took control early.
Tottenham also eased through, dispatching Doncaster 3-0. Joao Palhinha opened the scoring with an acrobatic finish before Jay McGrath’s own goal doubled the lead. Brennan Johnson added gloss in stoppage time with his third goal of the season.
