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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 leg of the final four.
Jurrien Timber had the first real chance of the game, heading a Declan Rice corner over the bar from close range in the 13th minute.
Moments later, Gabriel Martinelli found himself one-on-one with Martin Dubravka after an incisive pass from Leandro Trossard, but the Brazilian’s effort cannoned off 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, with Jacob Murphy controlling it before laying it off to Isak.
The Swedish striker fired his shot in off the underside of the crossbar, giving Newcastle a 1-0 lead.
A MASSIVE RESULT IN THE FIRST LEG!!! 😍😍 pic.twitter.com/ANBUQJf7Bv
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
The Gunners continued to push for an equaliser, but Newcastle’s defence stood firm until the end of the half.
Arsenal started the second half with more urgency, pinning Newcastle deep in their own half.
Odegaard and Martinelli tried to unlock the Magpies’ defence, but Dubravka was commanding in goal, punching away crosses and smothering chances.
Newcastle struck again in the 51st minute.
Isak’s initial effort was saved by David Raya, but the rebound fell to Gordon, who tapped into an empty net to make it 2-0.
The goal sent the Newcastle supporters into raptures and left 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 came close with a header from a corner but diverted it wide of the post. Martinelli also volleyed over after a clever one-two with Jorginho inside the box.
PASSION 👊 pic.twitter.com/qFZUk1yuPx
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
Arsenal piled on the pressure in the closing stages, winning a flurry of corners and free kicks in dangerous positions.
Odegaard’s deliveries, however, were consistently dealt with by Newcastle’s resolute backline.
Rice tried to rally his team with driving runs and crosses, but there was no way through.
Arsenal finished with 1.96 expected goals (xG) compared to Newcastle’s 0.9, highlighting their inability to convert chances.
Dubravka was instrumental for the visitors, making crucial saves and commanding his area throughout the game.
Isak and Gordon were clinical in front of goal, while Botman and Burn were rock-solid in defence.
Newcastle will take their two-goal advantage into the second leg at St. James’ Park, knowing that a disciplined display could secure their spot in the final.
For Arsenal, the task is daunting but not impossible. Arteta’s side will need a sharp attacking performance and greater composure in front of goal to turn the tie around.
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