Newcastle reach League Cup final with 2-0 win over Arsenal

DDM News

Newcastle advanced to the League Cup final for the second time in three seasons with a commanding 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the semi-final second leg on Wednesday.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the Magpies secured a 4-0 aggregate win, having already earned a 2-0 advantage from the first leg at the Emirates in January.

Eddie Howe’s men took control early, with Jacob Murphy’s first-half strike igniting the passionate St James’ Park crowd.

Newcastle’s dominance was further sealed by Anthony Gordon, who capitalized on some careless defending from Arsenal to score a second goal in the 52nd minute.

Newcastle will now face either Liverpool or Tottenham in the final at Wembley on March 16, after Tottenham’s 1-0 first-leg lead over Liverpool.

The win further solidifies Newcastle’s rise, marking their third victory over Arsenal this season.

After a dramatic 5-1 Premier League win over Manchester City just days earlier, Newcastle maintained their focus and determination in front of their home fans.

Howe’s side, who were runners-up in the 2023 League Cup final, were determined to finish the job after their strong performance in the first leg.

This victory marks a potential step towards their first major trophy since their 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup win.

Arsenal’s disappointing night came after a spirited 4-0 defeat to Newcastle earlier in the season, which left them struggling with key injuries and an inability to finish chances.

Mikel Arteta’s team failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity from Martin Ødegaard, who blasted a close-range shot against the post early in the game.

Newcastle, on the other hand, were clinical in their execution.

Alexander Isak was at the heart of the first goal, winning a header and sending a pass to Gordon, whose shot was blocked before falling to Murphy for the finish.

Murphy’s fifth goal of the season gave Newcastle the lead and sent the home fans into a frenzy.

Despite Arsenal’s brief recovery after a save from goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to deny Leandro Trossard, Newcastle’s high press continued to cause havoc.

It was a defensive blunder by Arsenal keeper David Raya in the 52nd minute that handed Newcastle their second goal.

Raya’s poor pass to Declan Rice was intercepted by Fabian Schär, and Gordon pounced on the loose ball to finish calmly from 12 yards.

With the victory, Newcastle now look ahead to the final, where they will aim to end a long drought for silverware.

The club has not won a major domestic trophy in over 70 years, with their last triumph coming in the 1955 FA Cup.

However, under Howe’s guidance and the backing of their Saudi owners, Newcastle have transformed from underachievers into serious contenders for major honors.

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