Newcastle United secured their place in the EFL Cup final with a commanding 2-0 win over Arsenal at St James’ Park, completing a dominant 4-0 aggregate victory. This triumph leaves Eddie Howe’s men just one game away from their first major domestic trophy since 1955. The Magpies will await the outcome of Liverpool vs. Tottenham to determine their final opponent.
Strong Start Sets the Tone
Newcastle entered the second leg with a 2-0 advantage from their impressive performance at the Emirates. From the opening minutes, they showed their intent to finish the job.
Just four minutes in, Alexander Isak thought he had given Newcastle the lead after a brilliant finish from a fast counterattack. However, VAR ruled him offside, frustrating the home crowd at St James’ Park.
Arsenal quickly responded as Martin Ødegaard struck the post with a well-taken shot, nearly cutting the deficit. But Newcastle were in no mood to let their dominance slip.
Murphy Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough came shortly after. Unfazed by his earlier disallowed goal, Isak latched onto a long goal-kick from Martin Dúbravka and linked up with Anthony Gordon before smashing a shot against the post. The ball bounced kindly for Jacob Murphy, who calmly slotted home to extend Newcastle’s lead to 3-0 on aggregate.
With the Gunners struggling to find a way back, Leandro Trossard had a chance before halftime, but Dúbravka’s quick reflex save kept Arsenal at bay.
Gordon Seals Arsenal’s Fate
Arsenal needed a big second-half performance, but Newcastle continued to expose their defensive weaknesses. A misplaced pass from goalkeeper David Raya was intercepted by Fabian Schär, who set up Gordon to fire home Newcastle’s second goal of the night.
Now leading 4-0 on aggregate, Newcastle slowed the game down, comfortably seeing out the remaining minutes. Despite their recent 5-1 thrashing of Manchester City in the Premier League, Arsenal looked out of ideas and failed to mount a comeback.
Newcastle Makes History, Arsenal’s Cup Wait Continues
With this win, Newcastle won four of their last five home meetings against Arsenal. Their fans can now dream of a first League Cup triumph as they await their final opponent. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s wait for an EFL Cup final appearance since 2018 continues, having last lifted the trophy in the 1992/93 season.
Kenyan Fans React
The EFL Cup has gained massive popularity among Kenyan football fans, especially those who passionately follow the English Premier League. Newcastle’s resurgence has won them new admirers in Kenya, while Arsenal’s die-hard supporters will be disappointed with yet another missed opportunity for silverware.
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With Newcastle in the EFL Cup final, can they finally lift their first domestic trophy in nearly 70 years? The wait won’t be extended to find out!
