Newcastle put themselves firmly in control of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie with Arsenal after a 2-0 away win in the first leg at the Emirates.
Newcastle United took a massive step toward securing a place in the Carabao Cup final with a commanding 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of their semi-final clash at the Emirates Stadium. Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon sealed a famous win for Eddie Howe’s side, putting them in a strong position ahead of the second leg at St James’ Park next month.
The win was a testament to Newcastle’s tactical discipline and clinical finishing, with Isak, a long-time target of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, delivering a man-of-the-match performance. Arsenal, meanwhile, were left to rue missed chances and injuries, leaving their hopes of a second major trophy under Arteta hanging by a thread.
Isak Shines as Arsenal Falters
Alexander Isak continued his red-hot form, scoring his 10th goal in nine appearances to give Newcastle the lead just before halftime. The Swedish striker, whom Arsenal had previously pursued, showcased his lethal finishing ability when he latched onto a flick-on from Sven Botman, firing a precise shot into the roof of the net past David Raya.
️ Watch the highlights from tonight’s Semi-Final first leg between @Arsenal and @NUFC #EFL | #CarabaoCup pic.twitter.com/ordGqmiB4y
— Carabao Cup (@Carabao_Cup) January 8, 2025
Newcastle doubled their advantage early in the second half when Isak’s shot was parried by Raya into the path of Anthony Gordon, who tapped the ball into the net. The goal sent the 6,000 Newcastle fans in attendance into raptures and solidified their team’s control of the tie.
A Missed Opportunity for Arsenal
Despite dominating possession and creating 23 chances, Arsenal managed just three shots on target. Their inability to capitalize on key moments proved costly. Gabriel Martinelli struck the post early on, and Martin Ødegaard orchestrated several opportunities, but Newcastle’s defense held firm.
Kai Havertz epitomized Arsenal’s struggles with a glaring miss in the second half. The German midfielder failed to convert from close range, his header coming off his shoulder with the goal at his mercy. Gabriel Jesus, brought off the bench to salvage the game, also missed a clear chance to pull one back.
Injuries added to Arsenal’s woes, with Leandro Trossard limping off after a clash with Gordon. Although he returned for the second half, his influence waned, leaving Arteta with limited options in attack.
Howe’s Tactical Masterclass
Eddie Howe’s tactical adjustments were instrumental in Newcastle’s victory. With Bruno Guimarães suspended, Howe turned to Joe Willock, a former Arsenal academy player. Willock’s energy and defensive work rate helped nullify Arsenal’s midfield threat, while Sandro Tonali provided composure in possession.
Newcastle’s defensive organization was exemplary, with goalkeeper Martin Dubravka making crucial saves. Dubravka’s heroics, including a last-minute clearance under pressure, ensured a clean sheet for the Magpies. Reports suggest the Slovakian goalkeeper may soon leave for Saudi side Al-Shabab, but his performance will be remembered as a vital contribution to Newcastle’s success.
Newcastle’s Quest for Silverware
The victory continues Newcastle’s remarkable journey under Howe, who has transformed the club into genuine contenders for domestic honors. With five successive Premier League wins, Newcastle entered the tie in high spirits, and their performance at the Emirates demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level.
Newcastle last reached the Carabao Cup final in 2023, where they suffered heartbreak against Manchester United. This year, they are determined to go one step further and end their 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy. With a two-goal advantage and the second leg at home, the Magpies are in pole position to secure their spot at Wembley.
Arteta Faces Tough Questions
For Arsenal, the defeat raises questions about their priorities and squad depth. Arteta fielded a strong lineup, but injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri left the team short of attacking options. The decision to rely heavily on this competition may come under scrutiny, especially with Arsenal aiming for bigger trophies.
The Gunners’ lack of efficiency in front of goal and defensive lapses will also be points of concern. Despite having the lion’s share of possession, Arsenal struggled to break down Newcastle’s resolute defense. The absence of a clinical finisher was glaring, as was the inability to deal with Newcastle’s counterattacking threat.
Key Moments of the Match
- Early Arsenal Pressure: Arsenal started brightly, with Martinelli hitting the post and Timber heading wide from a Declan Rice corner. However, they failed to capitalize on their early dominance.
- Isak’s Opener: A long ball from Dubravka, flicked on by Botman, found Isak, who finished emphatically to give Newcastle the lead.
- Gordon Doubles the Lead: Isak’s interplay with Murphy resulted in a shot parried by Raya, allowing Gordon to tap in Newcastle’s second.
- Havertz’s Miss: With the goal at his mercy, Havertz failed to connect properly, summing up Arsenal’s frustrating evening.
Looking Ahead
Newcastle will now prepare for the second leg at St James’ Park with a commanding advantage. Eddie Howe’s side will aim to maintain their momentum and secure a place in the final, where they hope to end their long trophy drought.
For Arsenal, the focus will be on regrouping and addressing their shortcomings. Arteta’s side must produce a near-perfect performance in the return leg to overturn the deficit and keep their hopes of silverware alive.
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