Newcastle took an important step towards the EFL Cup final with a clinical 2-0 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon sealed victory in the last four first leg.
Jurrien Timber had the first real chance of the match, heading a Declan Rice 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 was projected onto the post.
Despite Arsenal’s domination, it was Newcastle who opened the scoring in the 37th minute.
Dubravka’s long ball was launched by Dan Burn, with Jacob Murphy controlling it before passing it to Isak.
The Swedish striker fired his shot under 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 press for an equalizer, but Newcastle’s defense held 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 break the Magpies’ defense, but Dubravka was in command in goal, pushing away crosses and stifling 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 delighted Newcastle fans 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 to a header from a corner but turned it away from the post. Martinelli also volleyed home after a clever one-two with Jorginho inside the area.
PASSION 👊 pic.twitter.com/qFZUk1yuPx
– Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
Arsenal piled on the pressure in the closing stages, winning a series 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 runs and crosses, but there was no way through.
Arsenal finished with 1.96 expected goals (xG) 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 match.
Isak and Gordon were clinical in front of goal, while Botman and Burn were solid in defense.
Newcastle will take advantage of their two-goal advantage in the second leg at St. James’ Park, knowing that a disciplined display could secure their place in the final.
For Arsenal, the task is difficult but not impossible. Arteta’s side will need a sharp attacking performance and greater composure in front of goal to turn things around.
