Photo credit: GETTY IMAGES
Newcastle progressed to the Carabao Cup final for the second time in three seasons following a 2-0 semi-final second-leg victory over Arsenal, securing a 4-0 aggregate win.
Newcastle United secured a comprehensive 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg at St. James’ Park. This result, coupled with their 2-0 win in the first leg, ensured a 4-0 aggregate triumph and propelled the Magpies to the final. Goals from Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon sealed the victory, highlighting Newcastle’s dominant performance against a struggling Arsenal squad.
The match began with Newcastle showing their intent early on. The home side almost took an immediate lead when Alexander Isak found the net, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside after a VAR review. However, Newcastle didn’t have to wait long for their breakthrough. In the 16th minute, Isak’s powerful shot hit the post, and Jacob Murphy was quick to react, slotting home the rebound to give Newcastle a deserved lead.
Arsenal, missing the creative spark they are known for, struggled to respond. The Gunners’ task was made even more difficult when Gabriel Martinelli was forced off with a hamstring injury. With Martinelli out, Arsenal’s attacking threat diminished further, and they found it difficult to penetrate Newcastle’s resolute defense.
The second half saw Arsenal attempting to find a way back into the match, but Newcastle’s well-organized defense, led by Fabian Schär, held firm. The Magpies doubled their lead in the 58th minute after a costly mistake by Arsenal’s goalkeeper David Raya. Raya’s poor clearance fell to Anthony Gordon, who showed great composure to intercept the pass and calmly finish past the keeper, making it 2-0 on the night and 4-0 on aggregate.
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