Newcastle United claimed a vital 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of their League Cup semi-final on Tuesday, thanks to goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon. The result puts the Magpies within touching distance of their first League Cup final, as they chase their first major trophy since 1969.
Isak, currently one of the most in-form strikers in England, rifled in the opener and played a pivotal role in setting up Gordon’s goal shortly after half-time. The defeat leaves Arsenal with a steep uphill task in the second leg on February 5 if they hope to overturn the deficit and reach the final, where they would face either Tottenham or Liverpool.
“It’s a great result but only the first half of the tie,” said Isak, whose goal marked his 14th in 15 games and his 50th for Newcastle, achieved faster than club legend Alan Shearer.
Arsenal dominated possession but were undone by a lack of clinical finishing, a point lamented by manager Mikel Arteta. “We were the better team in every aspect except finishing,” said Arteta. “I believe we can turn this around.”
The Gunners came closest when Gabriel Martinelli struck the post, but moments later, Isak capitalised on a defensive lapse to fire Newcastle into the lead. Gordon doubled the advantage by converting a rebound after David Raya parried Isak’s shot.
Despite late pressure, Arsenal failed to breach Newcastle’s resolute defence, with Eddie Howe’s side adopting a defensive 5-5-0 setup to see out the game. Without the injured Bukayo Saka, Arsenal’s attack lacked the sharpness needed to find a breakthrough.
The second leg at St. James’ Park now looms as a decisive battle, with Newcastle on the verge of breaking their trophy drought.
