Newcastle took a significant step towards the EFL Cup final with a resounding 2-0 win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon sealed victory in the first leg of the Final Four.
Jurrien Timber had the first real chance of the game when he headed Declan Rice’s corner over the bar from close range in the 13th minute.
A few moments later, Gabriel Martinelli found himself one-on-one with Martin Dubravka after an incisive pass from Leandro Trossard, but the Brazilian’s shot went wide of the post.
Despite Arsenal’s dominance, it was Newcastle who opened the scoring in the 37th minute.
Dubravka’s long ball was passed on by Dan Burn, Jacob Murphy controlled it before passing it to Isak.
The Swedish striker fired his shot under the crossbar to give Newcastle a 1-0 lead.
A GREAT RESULT IN RESPECT!!! 😍😍 pic.twitter.com/ANBUQJf7Bv
– Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
The Gunners continued to push for an equalizer, but Newcastle’s defense remained steadfast until the end of the half.
Arsenal started the second half with greater urgency, pushing Newcastle deep into their own half.
Odegaard and Martinelli tried to unlock the Magpies’ defense but Dubravka was in command in goal, repelling crosses and destroying chances.
Newcastle struck again in the 51st minute.
Isak’s first attempt was parried by David Raya, but the rebound fell to Gordon, who hit the empty net to make it 2-0.
The goal sent Newcastle fans into raptures and presented Arsenal with a mountain to climb.
Mikel Arteta responded by introducing Gabriel Jesus and Jorginho just before the hour mark, but the changes failed to turn the tide.
Havertz almost missed a header from a corner, but deflected it past the post. Martinelli also fired a volley over the goal after a clever one-two with Jorginho in the penalty area.
PASSION 👊 pic.twitter.com/qFZUk1yuPx
– Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
In the final phase, Arsenal increased the pressure and won numerous corners and free kicks in dangerous positions.
However, Odegaard’s deliveries were consistently repelled by Newcastle’s resolute defense.
Rice tried to rally his team with driving runs and crosses, but there was no way through.
Arsenal finished the game with 1.96 expected goals (xG) compared to Newcastle’s 0.9, highlighting their inability to convert chances.
Dubravka played a crucial role for the visitors, making crucial saves and dominating his penalty area throughout the game.
Isak and Gordon were ice cold in front of goal, while Botman and Burn were rock solid in defense.
Newcastle will take their two-goal lead into the second leg at St James’ Park, knowing that a disciplined performance could secure their place in the final.
For Arsenal, the task is daunting but not impossible. Arteta’s team needs a strong attacking performance and more composure in front of goal to turn the tie around.
