Newcastle defeat Arsenal to take control of EFL Cup semi-final tie

Alexander Isak’s impressive scoring streak continued as Newcastle United secured a commanding first-leg victory over Arsenal in their Carabao Cup semi-final at the Emirates Stadium.

Newcastle, who have never won the competition, will advance to their second final in three seasons if they avoid defeat or lose by just one goal in the second leg at St James’ Park on February 5.

Arsenal, currently second in the Premier League and entering the tie as favorites, now face an uphill task in the return fixture.

Isak netted his 14th goal in 15 games, setting Newcastle on course for their seventh consecutive win.

Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka launched a free-kick forward, Sven Botman headed it on, and Jacob Murphy set up Isak, who calmly lifted the ball over David Raya.

Anthony Gordon extended Newcastle’s lead in the 51st minute, slotting home the rebound after Raya parried Isak’s shot.

Earlier, Arsenal came close to scoring, with Gabriel Martinelli striking the post and Jurrien Timber and William Saliba missing opportunities from close-range headers.

The first leg of the other semi-final between Tottenham and Liverpool takes place on Wednesday (20:00 GMT), with the final set for Wembley on March 16.

Newcastle United, four-time English champions and six-time FA Cup winners, have not claimed a major trophy since their Fairs Cup triumph in 1969.

This season, however, their fans dare to dream that the long trophy drought could finally end.

Eddie Howe’s team, runners-up to Manchester United in the 2023 Carabao Cup final, still face a tough road to Wembley, but their first-leg victory in London could not have been more promising.

History favors Newcastle, as all eight teams since 1987-88 to secure a two-goal advantage away from home in a semi-final first leg have gone on to reach the final.

Alexander Isak, once linked with a move to Arsenal, showcased his brilliance with a goal and an assist, tormenting the Gunners’ defense throughout the match. His performance underlined why he has become such a pivotal player for Newcastle.

Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon also played key roles in the victory, contributing to Newcastle’s resurgence this season. The team’s collective effort was evident, with goalkeeper Martin Dubravka making a crucial save to deny Gabriel and defenders Dan Burn and Sven Botman producing vital blocks to keep Arsenal at bay.

The win marks Newcastle’s seventh consecutive victory across all competitions, including triumphs over Leicester, Brentford, Ipswich, Aston Villa, Manchester United, Tottenham, and now Arsenal. This impressive run has propelled them to fifth in the Premier League, keeping their hopes alive for a Champions League return after competing in the tournament last season.

With an FA Cup tie and four league games to play before the second leg, Newcastle fans are already eagerly anticipating February 5. St James’ Park is set to host what promises to be an electrifying evening, as supporters hope their team can finish the job and secure a return to Wembley.