Arsenal vs Newcastle EFL Cup Report

Scorers: Isak 37’, Gordon 51’

Newcastle United delivered a disciplined and clinical performance at the Emirates, earning a 2-0 first-leg victory over Arsenal in the EFL Cup semi-final.

The result not only ended a 14-match winless streak in away meetings against the Gunners but also strengthened Newcastle’s hopes of reaching their second EFL Cup final in three seasons.

First Half: Isak’s Milestone Goal Stuns the Emirates

The match began at a frenetic pace, with both sides creating chances in an open and intense opening 10 minutes. Joelinton fired over the bar for Newcastle, while Martin Dúbravka thwarted Kai Havertz’s attempt following blocked efforts by Gabriel Martinelli and William Saliba.

Arsenal came close again through Jurriën Timber, who headed over from a Declan Rice corner, and Sandro Tonali, whose shot soared over after a deflected effort by Lewis Hall.

Despite Arsenal’s early pressure, Newcastle struck first in the 37th minute. Sven Botman’s towering header from Dúbravka’s long free-kick reached Jacob Murphy, who calmly set up Alexander Isak.

The Swedish forward made no mistake, clinically firing past David Raya to register his 50th goal in just 89 appearances for Newcastle—a remarkable milestone that silenced the home crowd.

Arsenal came close to an equaliser before halftime, but Dúbravka denied Gabriel Magalhães with a vital save, ensuring Newcastle entered the break with a slender lead.

Second Half: Gordon Doubles the Advantage

Newcastle wasted no time extending their advantage after the restart. In the 51st minute, David Raya parried Isak’s initial effort into the path of Anthony Gordon, who converted from close range to make it 2-0.

The goal capitalised on Newcastle’s growing confidence and left Arsenal chasing the game.

Arsenal had their chances to respond, but their finishing let them down. Havertz misjudged a header from a deflected Leandro Trossard cross, Saliba headed wide from another Rice delivery, and Martinelli’s inventive strike fizzed off-target.

Despite dominating possession, the Gunners struggled to break down a resolute Newcastle defence.

Relentless Newcastle Hold Firm

Arsenal continued to pile on the pressure, but Newcastle’s defence, marshalled by Botman and Fabian Schär, held firm.

Jorginho’s speculative shot sailed over the bar, summing up the Gunners’ frustration. Newcastle’s organisation and determination ensured they maintained their two-goal cushion, recording their seventh consecutive win across all competitions.

What’s Next?

Newcastle return to St James’ Park with a commanding two-goal advantage for the second leg, firmly in control of their destiny as they aim for another EFL Cup final appearance.

Arsenal, meanwhile, face an uphill battle to overturn the deficit and keep their hopes of a first EFL Cup final since 2018 alive.

For more details on this fixture, you can also visit: Carabao Cup draw, Final date, results, fixtures, stats, rules – The English Football League