A defensive error allowed Aaron Loupalo-Bi to give the hosts an unexpected 1-0 lead in the 21st minute, though Arteta's side hit back early in the second period as Viktor Gyokeres bundled home the equaliser.

Most would have expected Arsenal to pull clear next, but they failed to do so. Fleetwood remained resolute and in the 85th minute, teenage sensation Max Dowman received a straight red card following an incident with opposition defender Harrison Neal.

As he made his way down the tunnel, Arteta had some pointed remarks for him.

Spot-kicks ultimately settled the tie, and Bruno Guimaraes' unsuccessful attempt presented Fleetwood with the opportunity to create history.

Fleetwood boss Lawlor has praised Arteta for his behaviour in the aftermath of the humiliation.

"He shook my hand two or three times and he was really, really gracious. I can imagine it's a really disappointing night for him," said Lawlor.

"But the way that he acted there, with class, is amazing. I would love to catch up with him and pick his brains, but he's been really busy with media and all the emotions that come with it.

"We've not managed to cross paths, but he said well done in the tunnel briefly and how well we did, which is obviously a show of class from him."

Arteta displayed equal dignity during his press conference after the defeat. He said: "First of all, congratulations to Fleetwood. In the manner they did it, the atmosphere they created.

"When we create the volume of shots and chances we did, you have to score three, four or five. You capitalise on it. If you don't, there are no margins and that's the reality. Then you have to wait and get through the round on penalties and we didn't do that.

"The probability was low with the way the game was panning out, but it's football and still with low probability, there is always a chance you could be out of the cup. We are extremely sad - but at the same time we need to congratulate the opponent."