Magpies Take Commanding Lead in EFL Cup Semi-Final

Newcastle stuns Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates in the EFL Cup semi-final first leg!

January 7, 2025
11:26 pm

Newcastle United snagged a solid 2-0 win over Arsenal in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final at the Emirates Stadium. This victory not only gives the Magpies a nice edge going into the second leg but also marks their first away win against Arsenal in 14 tries, showing off the club’s awesome comeback under Eddie Howe.

Right from the start, both teams were eager to take control. Newcastle’s high pressing caused some early headaches for Arsenal, with Joelinton sending a warning shot over the bar in the 6th minute. Arsenal fought back with Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz, but Martin Dúbravka was on point, keeping things level.

Newcastle’s relentless pressing made it tough for Arsenal to find their groove. Even though the Gunners struggled, Martinelli almost broke the deadlock with a solo run that ended with his shot hitting the post. Just moments later, Sven Botman showed off Newcastle’s defensive strength by blocking a dangerous shot from Havertz.

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The deadlock finally broke in the 37th minute in style. Botman met Dúbravka’s long free-kick, nodding it to Jacob Murphy. Murphy’s clever touch found Alexander Isak, who slotted home his 50th goal in just 89 appearances for the club. Arsenal tried to respond before halftime, but Dúbravka pulled off a fantastic save to deny Gabriel Magalhães.

The second half started off rough for Arsenal, with Newcastle doubling their lead just six minutes in. David Raya parried Isak’s initial shot, but Anthony Gordon was right there to tap in the rebound and punish Arsenal’s defensive slip-up.

The Gunners tried to fight back but kept running into Newcastle’s solid defense. Kai Havertz misjudged a close-range header, William Saliba sent his own header wide, and Martinelli’s creativity didn’t hit the mark. Substitute Jorginho also missed a golden chance, firing over the bar as Arsenal’s frustration mounted.

Meanwhile, Newcastle proved why they’re one of the toughest teams to beat in English football. With their seventh straight win across all competitions, they’re in a great spot to reach their second EFL Cup final in three years. Arsenal, however, saw their 13-match unbeaten streak come to a sudden end and now face a tough challenge in the second leg at St. James’ Park.

Arsenal will need a near-perfect performance at St. James’ Park to turn things around and keep their hopes for silverware alive. Newcastle, riding high from this result, will aim to build on their advantage and get closer to their first major trophy since 1955.