Aaron Loupalo-Bi: Three things to know about Fleetwood’s Arsenal match-winner

Aaron Loupalo-Bi scored the opening goal as Fleetwood Town secured a historic victory over Arsenal in the EFL Cup on 27 October 2026.

Fleetwood held Arsenal to a 1-1 draw before winning 5-3 on penalties, with Loupalo-Bi’s early strike providing the League Two side with a memorable lead. The result made the young forward the standout figure of an important night for the club.

Fulham graduate

Born in London on 7 November 2005, Aaron Bradley Loupalo-Bi is primarily a centre-forward, although he can also operate on either wing.

He joined Fulham’s academy at a young age and progressed through the club’s youth system. Loupalo-Bi enjoyed an especially productive campaign last season, scoring 14 goals in 20 appearances for Fulham’s under-21 side.

His performances at youth level helped establish him as one of the club’s promising attacking players before he moved out on loan to gain experience in senior football.

Third loan spell

Loupalo-Bi joined Fleetwood Town on loan in August 2026 as he continued his development. It is the English forward’s third loan move, following previous spells with Dagenham & Redbridge and Walsall.

The switch to Fleetwood has given him the opportunity to play more regularly away from his parent club and experience the demands of the professional game in League Two.

The forward is of Ivorian descent and is continuing to build his career through competitive senior football after making his way through Fulham’s academy.

A decisive goal against Arsenal

Loupalo-Bi made an immediate impact against Arsenal by putting Fleetwood ahead in the 21st minute.

Using his physical strength, he got the better of young defender Marli Salmon before beating goalkeeper Illan Meslier to give the home side the advantage. Arsenal later levelled through Viktor Gyokeres, but Fleetwood held on to take the tie to a penalty shootout.

Fleetwood then prevailed 5-3 from the spot, completing a notable cup victory and giving Loupalo-Bi a night to remember.

Arsenal are due to play Liverpool in their ninth match of the English league season. The odds listed by 1xbet are 1.15 for an Arsenal win, 3.20 for a draw and 2.85 for a Liverpool victory.