Mikel Arteta urged his Arsenal players to prove their resilience after a stunning 2‑1 defeat to Championship side Southampton in the FA Cup quarter‑finals. Ross Stewart put the hosts ahead at a lively St Mary’s, and although substitute Viktor Gyokeres levelled after the break, Arsenal’s disjointed display—without injured stars Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka—left them vulnerable. Their problems deepened when Gabriel Magalhães limped off with a knee issue.
Southampton capitalised in the 85th minute as Shea Charles guided in the winner from the edge of the box. Arteta lamented his team’s defensive lapses, admitting both goals came from situations Arsenal normally manage with ease. Despite dominating territory and creating two major chances, their errors proved decisive.
The defeat, Arsenal’s fifth of the season, marks their first back‑to‑back losses in all competitions. They must regroup quickly before tonight’s Champions League quarter‑final first leg at Sporting Lisbon.