This weekend, Arsenal triumphed in their semifinal match over Wigan Athletic and booked a place in the FA Cup final game. Their championship rivals will be Hull City who defeated Sheffield, making the Gunners into clear favorites to win the title. However, Saturday’s game did not go as they had planned – a late intervention in the penalty-area by Mertesacker was awarded as penalty for Wigan. Gomez scored the goal and many of fans around the world probably thought that history will repeat itself for the Gunners. But Mertesacker redeemed himself later, when he scored the equalizer, eight minutes prior to the end of regular game time.
No more goals were seen after the total 120 minutes of game, so teams prepared for penalties which would decide who will progress to the final. Polish goalkeeper, Fabianski, was hero of the day. He saved the first two shoots by Wigan’s players and after when Cazorla scored goal in fourth series, it was clear that Gunners will return to Wembley for the final game.
The happiness of players is indescribable – Mertesacker went from zero to hero in just 20 minutes, but he gave all the credits for victory to his teammate:
Thanks Lukasz for putting this smile on my face today :)! You are a great teammate and friend! @Arsenal #COYG pic.twitter.com/JPl3c4s5YX
— Per Mertesacker (@mertesacker) April 12, 2014
His partner in defense, Vermalaen and his compatriot, Podolski were both excited for one more game at the biggest British stadium:
What a great day at Wembley. Looking forward to the final. Fans were fantastic. pic.twitter.com/RAAmhEHLYT
— Thomas Vermaelen (@T_Vermaelen05) April 12, 2014
Final step. See you in Wembley again. pic.twitter.com/GZNhQllNZm
— Lukas-Podolski.com (@Podolski10) April 12, 2014
Gunners managed to overcome themselves and the ghosts of their past. With one hand on the trophy, it is certain that winning the FA Cup is their primal goal until the end of the season. Also, they will race with Everton for the fourth spot on Premier League table, which will see them in qualifications for Champions League next season. Exicting month is ahead of all Gunners – for both players and supporters so we will wish them good luck in upcoming games.
