Football
ESPN staff 7y

Claude Puel praises Southampton for 'fantastic game' in Arsenal win

Southampton manager Claude Puel was thrilled with his team's efforts as they shocked Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday to book their place in the EFL Cup semifinals.

Two first-half goals from Jordy Clasie and Ryan Bertrand were enough to send Southampton through to the final four for the first time since 1987, as Arsene Wenger's men failed to respond despite having much of the possession.

"It was a great performance because this game was a different profile,'' he said.

"We were clinical in the first half, with two goals from two chances. I like this.

"After, in the second half, we had many chances to score another goal and make the game safe against a good team.

"It was a fantastic game to achieve that result: good solidarity, good attitude. I enjoyed what my players did.

"We have a chance to play a semifinal, home and away, in the second half of the season. That was the objective.

"[There are some] very important games in the future.''

Southampton join Hull City, Manchester United and Liverpool in the semifinals.

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