Newcastle United secured a decisive 2-0 victory over Arsenal at St James' Park on Wednesday, propelling them into the Carabao Cup final. The match, witnessed by a lively crowd of 52,173 spectators, was the second leg of the semi-final, which Newcastle dominated with an aggregate lead of 4-0. Goals from Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon cemented Newcastle’s place in the final for the second time in three seasons.
The much-anticipated clash saw Newcastle adapt their strategy to counter Arsenal's midfield prowess. Under the guidance of manager Eddie Howe, the changes implemented aimed to bolster the team's height and solidity at the back. The preparation for this tactical shift commenced on Monday, reflecting Howe's tactical acumen.
Arsenal entered the match with high hopes of overturning their first-leg deficit. However, despite their aspirations, they struggled to find their rhythm. Manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the errors that led to Newcastle's dominance.
"Errors are part of football but we are usually super consistent and composed but today we gave them hope. We allowed them to run and we were vulnerable – they are a dangerous team when they could do that." – Mikel Arteta
The match showcased high-intensity performances from both teams, with energy and aggression palpable on the field. Newcastle's Alexander Isak had an early goal nullified due to an offside call after a VAR review. His presence, however, continually tested Arsenal's defense, as Gabriel and William Saliba found it difficult to contain him.
As the first half progressed, Arsenal had significant opportunities but failed to capitalize. Arteta reflected on the missed chances that could have shifted the game's momentum.
"We had so many expectations to turn this around but we didn't get any momentum despite having some big moments in the first half. We didn't capitalize and the next action they scored. The game then shifted. We then needed to stay cool to score a goal but we didn't manage to do that. Then in the second half we struggled as the game went by and the game went away from us." – Mikel Arteta
The turning point came in the second half when Jacob Murphy broke the deadlock with a well-placed shot, igniting the home crowd. Not long after, Anthony Gordon extended Newcastle's lead, effectively sealing Arsenal's fate.
Arteta lamented Arsenal's inability to be effective in crucial moments across both legs of the semi-final.
"When you want to win trophies you need to be effective in the boxes. We have played two games against them and haven't been effective. Overall that was the main difference. Today we were a little unsettled when the game became more chaotic we are normally more composed but we lacked a bit of that." – Mikel Arteta
Eddie Howe expressed pride in his team's journey to the final, emphasizing the merit of their achievements against formidable opponents.
"We're here on merit, our run's not been easy. Look at the teams we've had to face; I think it's four Premier League teams if I'm right, but we've done the hard yards and we've now got an opportunity. Hopefully we can learn from the last one and just improve our performance." – Eddie Howe
With this victory, Newcastle secures a place at Wembley on March 16 for the Carabao Cup final. They will face either Tottenham or Liverpool, with anticipation building for what promises to be an exhilarating contest.
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