Newcastle took a significant step towards the EFL Cup final with a clinical 2-0 win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon sealed the victory in the first game of the final four.
Jurrien Timber had the first real chance of the match, who in the 13th minute headed Declan Rice’s corner over the goal from close range.
Moments later, Gabriel Martinelli found himself one-on-one with Martin Dubravko after Leandro Trossard’s sharp pass, but the Brazilian’s effort missed the post.
Despite Arsenal’s dominance, it was Newcastle who opened the scoring in the 37th minute.
Dubravka’s long ball was flicked on by Dan Burn and Jacob Murphy controlled it before laying it to Isak.
The Swedish striker fired wide of the crossbar to give Newcastle a 1-0 lead.
HUGE RESULT IN THE FIRST MATCH!!! 😍😍 pic.twitter.com/ANBUQJf7Bv
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
The Gunners continued to push for an equaliser, but Newcastle’s defense held firm for the rest of the half.
Arsenal made a hasty start to the second half, pinning Newcastle deep in their own half.
Odegaard and Martinelli tried to unlock the defense of the Magpies, but Dubravka was in command in goal, clearing crosses and extinguishing chances.
Newcastle scored again in the 51st minute.
Isak’s initial effort was saved by David Ray, but the rebound fell to Gordon, who fired into an empty net to make it 2-0.
The goal delighted the Newcastle fans and left Arsenal with a mountain to climb.
Mikel Arteta responded by bringing on Gabriel Jesus and Jorginho shortly before the hour mark, but the changes failed to turn the tide.
Havertz came close to a header from the corner but deflected it wide of the post. Martinelli also volleyed home after a clever one-two with Jorginho in the box.
PASSION 👊 pic.twitter.com/qFZUk1yuPx
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
Arsenal increased the pressure in the final stages, winning a number of corners and free kicks in dangerous positions.
Odegaard’s deliveries, however, were consistently dealt with by Newcastle’s determined backline.
Rice tried to rally his team with runs and interceptions, but there were no passes.
Arsenal finished with 1.96 expected goals (xG) compared to Newcastle’s 0.9, highlighting their inability to convert chances.
Dubravka was key for the visitors, he made key saves and commanded his space throughout the game.
Isak and Gordon were clinical in front of the goal, while Botman and Burn were solid in defense.
Newcastle will use their two-goal advantage in 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 side will need sharp attacking play and greater composure in front of goal to turn the tie around.
