Arsenal eliminated from FA Cup by second-division Southampton

Arsenal was eliminated from the FA Cup on Saturday after losing 2-1 to Southampton, a second-division side, in the quarterfinals at St. Mary's Stadium.

The match marked Arsenal's second knockout defeat in less than two weeks, following their loss to Manchester City in the English League Cup final. Southampton, currently seventh in the second division, became the only second-tier team to reach the FA Cup semifinals.

Arsenal dominated possession in the first half, controlling approximately 70 percent of the ball and recording 12 shots on goal. Manager Mikel Arteta fielded a starting lineup that included 16-year-old midfielder Max Dowman. Despite their territorial advantage, Arsenal failed to convert their dominance into goals.

Southampton, wearing yellow and blue in commemoration of their 50th anniversary of winning the FA Cup in 1976, initially pressed Arsenal goalkeeper Arrizabalaga early in the match. The visitors then retreated into a defensive shape that Arsenal struggled to break down.

Ben White's error led to Southampton taking the lead. Arsenal equalized during the match, but Shea Charles scored the decisive goal to secure Southampton's 2-1 victory and their place in the semifinals.

Arsenal entered the competition having avoided difficult opponents in the draw but could not overcome the second-division side's defensive organization and clinical finishing.