Villa defeated Chelsea tonight in a 2-1 victory thanks to goals from Juan Pablo Angel and Gavin McCann whilst the Trotters overcame a strong Southampton side last night after extra time thanks to a solitary goal from Henrik Pedersen.
The second leg will be played at Villa Park on the 28th January 2004. Arsenal will contest the competitions other tie with a home draw first off against Middlesbrough who have former Wanderers players Michael Ricketts and Allan Johnston in their squad.