Newcastle took a big step in direction of the EFL Cup closing with a medical 2-0 win over Arsenal on the Emirates Stadium.
Targets from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon sealed the victory within the first leg of the ultimate 4.
Jurrien Timber had the primary actual probability of the sport, heading a Declan Rice nook over the bar from shut vary within the thirteenth minute.
Moments later, Gabriel Martinelli discovered himself one-on-one with Martin Dubravka after an incisive cross from Leandro Trossard, however the Brazilian’s effort cannoned off the publish.
Regardless of Arsenal’s dominance, it was Newcastle who opened the scoring within the thirty seventh minute.
Dubravka’s lengthy ball was flicked on by Dan Burn, with Jacob Murphy controlling it earlier than laying it off to Isak.
The Swedish striker fired his shot in off the underside of the crossbar, giving Newcastle a 1-0 lead.
A MASSIVE RESULT IN THE FIRST LEG!!! pic.twitter.com/ANBUQJf7Bv
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
The Gunners continued to push for an equaliser, however Newcastle’s defence stood agency till the tip of the half.
Arsenal began the second half with extra urgency, pinning Newcastle deep in their very own half.
Odegaard and Martinelli tried to unlock the Magpies’ defence, however Dubravka was commanding in aim, punching away crosses and smothering possibilities.
Newcastle struck once more within the 51st minute.
Isak’s preliminary effort was saved by David Raya, however the rebound fell to Gordon, who tapped into an empty web to make it 2-0.
The aim despatched the Newcastle supporters into raptures and left Arsenal with a mountain to climb.
Mikel Arteta responded by introducing Gabriel Jesus and Jorginho simply earlier than the hour mark, however the adjustments failed to show the tide.
Havertz got here shut with a header from a nook however diverted it large of the publish. Martinelli additionally volleyed over after a intelligent one-two with Jorginho contained in the field.
PASSION pic.twitter.com/qFZUk1yuPx
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025
Arsenal piled on the stress within the closing phases, profitable a flurry of corners and free kicks in harmful positions.
Odegaard’s deliveries, nevertheless, have been persistently handled by Newcastle’s resolute backline.
Rice tried to rally his group with driving runs and crosses, however there was no manner by way of.
Arsenal completed with 1.96 anticipated objectives (xG) in comparison with Newcastle’s 0.9, highlighting their incapability to transform possibilities.
Dubravka was instrumental for the guests, making essential saves and commanding his space all through the sport.
Isak and Gordon have been medical in entrance of aim, whereas Botman and Burn have been rock-solid in defence.
Newcastle will take their two-goal benefit into the second leg at St. James’ Park, understanding {that a} disciplined show might safe their spot within the closing.
For Arsenal, the duty is daunting however not not possible. Arteta’s aspect will want a pointy attacking efficiency and larger composure in entrance of aim to show the tie round.
The post Toon take two-goal benefit to St James’ Park first appeared on Foot & Soccer.
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Author : footsoccer
Publish date : 2025-01-08 00:21:22
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