Newcastle United moved a step closer to their first major domestic trophy in nearly seven decades with a 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of the English League Cup semifinals at the Emirates Stadium. Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon have put the Magpies in a strong position ahead of the second leg at St James’ Park on February 5, as they eye a final appearance at Wembley in March.
“It’s a great result, but it’s only the first half. If we don’t go through, then this win means nothing, but we can’t hide from the fact that it’s a massive achievement,” said Isak after the match.
This victory marked Newcastle’s first at the Emirates since 2010, while it also ended Arsenal’s unbeaten home record, which had stood since April.
Isak and Gordon Shine for Newcastle
Isak, in sensational form, opened the scoring in the 37th minute with his 14th goal in 15 games. The Sweden international’s sharpness and clinical finishing have been key to Newcastle’s success, and he continued his stellar run with a powerful strike off the underside of the crossbar after a well-executed free kick from Jacob Murphy.
Newcastle doubled their lead just after halftime in the 51st minute. Isak’s initial shot was saved by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, but Gordon was quick to pounce on the rebound, firing home to seal the advantage.
Arsenal’s Missed Opportunities
Arsenal, who have been dominant in recent months, came close to taking the lead in the first half when Gabriel Martinelli’s powerful shot in the 29th minute hit the post. The Gunners also had a chance to pull one back when Kai Havertz misfired from close range, missing an easy header in front of goal.
Despite some moments of good fortune, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe expressed his satisfaction with the result: “We rode our luck a little bit at times, but I’m really pleased with the result.”
Newcastle’s Domestic Trophy Hopes and Form
Newcastle’s victory is particularly significant as the club, owned by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund since 2021, has not won a major domestic trophy since lifting the FA Cup in 1951. The club is now on the brink of reaching its second League Cup final in three years after losing to Manchester United in the 2023 final.
Eddie Howe’s side achieved their seventh consecutive victory across all competitions with Isak’s outstanding scoring form fueling their success. With the Premier League season ongoing, Newcastle is also pushing for a return to the Champions League, sitting fifth in the league, just one point outside the top four.
Looking Ahead
As the League Cup semifinals progress, the Magpies will head into the second leg with a strong advantage, but their eyes remain firmly set on lifting the trophy after nearly seven decades. Meanwhile, in the other semifinal, Tottenham will face Liverpool at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday, with both teams vying for a place in the final.
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