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| Newcastle United victory picture taken at the St. James Park |
Newcastle United secured their place in the Carabao Cup final with a commanding 2-0 victory over Arsenal at St James' Park, completing a 4-0 aggregate win in the semi-final. Goals from Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon sealed the Magpies' progression, setting up a final clash against the winner of the Tottenham and Liverpool tie on March 16 at Wembley Stadium.
The match began with high intensity, with both teams eager to assert dominance. Newcastle's tactical setup, featuring a switch to three center-backs, effectively stifled Arsenal's attacking threats. This strategic adjustment by manager Eddie Howe paid dividends, as the home side looked solid defensively and potent on the counter-attack.
The breakthrough came in the 25th minute when Alexander Isak, strike hits the left pole and deflected to Jacob Murphy. Murphy slotted it past Arsenal's goalkeeper, giving Newcastle a deserved lead.
Arsenal, needing to overturn a two-goal deficit from the first leg, struggled to find their rhythm. Their efforts were further hampered when Gabriel Martinelli suffered a hamstring injury in the 37th minute, forcing him to leave the pitch and adding to Mikel Arteta's growing injury concerns.
In the second half, Newcastle continued to press their advantage. In the 51st minute, Anthony Gordon capitalized on a defensive lapse, doubling the lead for the Magpies. Gordon's goal not only highlighted Newcastle's attacking prowess but also underscored Arsenal's defensive vulnerabilities.
Despite Arsenal's attempts to mount a comeback, Newcastle's defense, marshaled by Dan Burn, Fabian Schär, and Sven Botman, remained resolute. The Gunners' frustrations were evident, with key players like Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard unable to make significant impacts.
The final whistle confirmed Newcastle's place in the Carabao Cup final, marking a significant achievement for Eddie Howe and his squad. The Magpies will now prepare to face either Liverpool or Tottenham at Wembley, aiming to secure their first major domestic trophy since 1955.
