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Newcastle Take Commanding 2-0 Lead Over Arsenal

Posted : 08 January 2025

Newcastle made a significant step toward reaching the League Cup final with a 2-0 victory in the first leg of their semifinal against Arsenal on Tuesday. Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon put the Magpies in a commanding position ahead of the return leg at St. James' Park.

 

Despite never having won the competition, Newcastle's performance showcased the form of Isak, who has been one of the top strikers in England. He scored the opening goal and assisted Gordon for the second, leaving Arsenal with a tough task to overcome when the two teams meet again in February.

 

Both teams fielded their strongest available line-ups, emphasizing the importance of winning silverware. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, while leading the club to recent Premier League title challenges, has not won a trophy since lifting the FA Cup in 2020.

 

 The home side saw the return of key players like Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli, who had missed Saturday's draw with Brighton. However, Arsenal's inability to capitalize on their dominance in possession was evident, with Martinelli hitting the post and the Gunners failing to convert other chances.

 

In contrast, Newcastle's clinical efficiency was on full display, with Isak's opening goal coming from a long free-kick that Arsenal failed to defend. The Swedish striker's 14th goal in his last 15 matches also marked his 50th for the club, reaching the milestone in fewer matches than Newcastle's legendary top scorer, Alan Shearer.

 

Shortly after the break, Isak's quick thinking helped set up Gordon for the second goal, as his shot was parried into Gordon's path, who made no mistake in firing home.

 

Arsenal had opportunities to make the tie more competitive, with Havertz missing a glaring header that could have reduced the deficit. Despite controlling much of the game, Arsenal struggled to break down a resolute Newcastle defense, especially with the absence of the injured Bukayo Saka.

 

Eddie Howe's side, content with their lead, adopted a defensive formation for the final 20 minutes, and Arsenal could not find a way through, leaving them with an uphill battle in the second leg.

 

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