Newcastle United moved one step closer to a Carabao Cup final after a crucial 2-0 win over Arsenal in the first leg of their semifinal at the Emirates on Tuesday night.
Alexander Isak scored his 50th goal for the club, while Anthony Gordon sealed the victory with a second-half tap-in.
The match saw Isak break the deadlock just before halftime. A well-timed ball into the box found him at the perfect moment, and he made no mistake, firing past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya into the roof of the net. Arsenal had their chances, with Gabriel Martinelli coming closest when he struck the woodwork from the edge of the area. Kai Havertz also squandered a golden opportunity, heading wide from close range after the break.
Newcastle, who have now won back-to-back away games in north London following their 2-1 win over Tottenham, were clinical in front of goal. In the 50th minute, Isak turned provider, sending a pass to Gordon, whose rebound finish doubled the lead after Raya parried Isak’s shot.
Arsenal, who had been unbeaten in 13 games across all competitions, struggled to break down a resolute Newcastle defence. Despite pressing late on, the hosts were unable to find a way back into the match, leaving Newcastle in a strong position heading into the second leg at St James’ Park next month.
The win is significant for Newcastle, who are chasing their first major trophy since 1955, and with Isak in fine form—scoring 10 goals in his last nine appearances—the Magpies will now be clear favourites to complete the job at home.
