Newcastle United Storm into EFL Cup Semi-Finals with 3-1 Win Over Brentford
Newcastle United advanced to the EFL Cup semi-finals with a commanding 3-1 victory over Brentford at St James’ Park on Tuesday night. Sandro Tonali’s brilliant first-half brace and Fabian Schär’s second-half goal sealed the Magpies’ place in the last four, marking their second EFL Cup semi-final appearance in three seasons. The result extended Newcastle’s remarkable unbeaten home record against Brentford, which dates back to 1934, and reinforced their growing reputation as serious contenders for silverware.
First-Half Domination by Newcastle
Fresh from their emphatic 4-0 Premier League win over Leicester City at the weekend, Newcastle came into the match full of confidence. Manager Eddie Howe stuck with the same starting XI that dominated Leicester, and his decision paid off immediately.
The Magpies began the game with intensity, taking control from the first whistle. The opening goal arrived within 10 minutes when Tino Livramento’s low cross into the box appeared to have been cleared by Nathan Collins. However, the ball fell to Sandro Tonali on the edge of the area, and the Italian midfielder fired a precise first-time shot into the bottom corner, giving Newcastle an early lead.
That technique. pic.twitter.com/eZUrjxIKF6
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 18, 2024
Brentford attempted to respond quickly, with Yoane Wissa appealing for a penalty after a coming together in the box. However, the referee dismissed the claims, and Newcastle continued to dominate possession and dictate the pace of the game.
Adding to Brentford’s woes, their defensive crisis deepened when Ethan Pinnock was forced off due to injury. This followed the pre-match withdrawal of Sepp van den Berg, leaving the Bees further exposed at the back. Newcastle took full advantage, piling on the pressure as halftime approached.
In the 39th minute, Tonali struck again to double Newcastle’s lead. The midfielder timed his run perfectly to meet a lofted pass, volleying past Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken with precision. It was Tonali’s first brace for Newcastle and a demonstration of his growing influence in the midfield.
Sandro ole, ole, ole pic.twitter.com/wKDDXOKkDY
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 19, 2024
Second-Half Resurgence and Newcastle’s Third Goal
Brentford began the second half with more urgency, briefly threatening to mount a comeback. However, their revival was short-lived as Newcastle regained control with swift counterattacks.
Anthony Gordon, a standout performer throughout the game, created two golden opportunities to extend Newcastle’s lead. His first attempt saw a curling shot narrowly miss the far post, while his second effort, following a clever exchange with Jacob Murphy, also went just wide.
.@brunoog97 @fabianschaer pic.twitter.com/QbqNu9DDwS
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 19, 2024
The Magpies finally put the result beyond doubt in the 69th minute. Lewis Hall unleashed a powerful shot that Flekken parried into the path of Bruno Guimarães. The Brazilian midfielder showed great awareness, squaring the ball to Fabian Schär, who tapped into an empty net to make it 3-0. The goal capped a dominant performance by Newcastle and left Brentford with little hope of a comeback.
Late Consolation for Brentford
Despite being outclassed for much of the match, Brentford managed a consolation goal in stoppage time. Wissa capitalized on a loose ball in the box, side-footing it past Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope. While it spared Brentford the indignity of a scoreless defeat, the goal did little to overshadow their struggles throughout the game.
Brentford’s Away Troubles Continue
Brentford’s poor away form was on full display once again. The Bees have yet to secure a victory on the road against Premier League opposition in any competition this season, with a record of one draw and eight losses (D1, L8). Injuries to key players and a lack of attacking sharpness have compounded their struggles, leaving them unable to match Newcastle’s intensity and quality.
Newcastle’s Unstoppable EFL Cup Run
Newcastle’s victory marked their eighth consecutive home win in the EFL Cup, a testament to their dominance at St James’ Park. The Magpies have now reached the semi-finals for the second time in three seasons, showcasing their consistency in domestic cup competitions. After falling short in the 2023 EFL Cup final against Manchester United, Newcastle are determined to go one step further this time.
Sandro Tonali’s standout performance highlighted the depth and versatility of Eddie Howe’s squad. The Italian midfielder’s ability to control the game from midfield and contribute goals underscores his importance to Newcastle’s aspirations this season.
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Key Moments and Match Statistics
Goals:
- 10’ Sandro Tonali (Newcastle): A precise first-time strike into the bottom corner.
- 39’ Sandro Tonali (Newcastle): A perfectly timed volley to double Newcastle’s lead.
- 69’ Fabian Schär (Newcastle): A tap-in following a rebound and assist from Bruno Guimarães.
- 90+3’ Yoane Wissa (Brentford): A late consolation goal with a composed finish.
Match Stats:
- Possession: Newcastle 58% – Brentford 42%
- Shots on Target: Newcastle 7 – Brentford 2
- Corners: Newcastle 6 – Brentford 3
- Fouls: Newcastle 10 – Brentford 12
Newcastle’s Hopes for Silverware
With their place in the semi-finals secured, Newcastle fans can dream of ending their 69-year trophy drought. The Magpies’ last major trophy came in 1955, and this season’s EFL Cup run offers a genuine chance to bring silverware back to Tyneside. Eddie Howe’s team continues to impress with their blend of attacking flair and defensive solidity, making them a formidable opponent in both domestic and European competitions.
As Newcastle turn their attention back to the Premier League, their focus will remain on maintaining momentum and continuing to build on their impressive form. With the EFL Cup semi-finals looming, the Magpies are just two wins away from lifting their first major trophy in decades.
