Newcastle United took a significant step towards the Carabao Cup final with a 2-0 win against Arsenal in the first leg of their semi-final at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday. Goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon gave the Magpies a commanding advantage ahead of the return leg on 5 February.

The victory boosts Newcastle’s hopes of lifting their first major trophy since 1969, with the club still searching for their maiden League Cup title. In Alexander Isak, Newcastle possess one of the most in-form strikers in England, as the Swede rifled in the opener before setting up the second for Gordon.

Arsenal, meanwhile, face a daunting challenge in the second leg if they are to overturn the deficit and secure a place in the final, where either Tottenham Hotspur or Liverpool await.

“It’s massive. It’s a great result, but it’s only the first half,” said Isak after Newcastle claimed their seventh consecutive victory and their first at the Emirates since 2010. “If we don’t go through, then this has no meaning.”

Newcastle’s Ruthless Edge

Both sides fielded strong line-ups, underlining the importance of silverware for the two clubs. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who has revitalised the Gunners in recent seasons, was able to call upon Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli, returning to the side after Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Brighton.

Despite dominating possession and creating chances, Arsenal lacked the cutting edge that Newcastle displayed. Martinelli came closest for the hosts in the first half when his fierce effort struck the post. Moments later, Isak punished Arsenal’s lapse in defence, smashing a free-kick delivery into the net via the underside of the crossbar.

Isak’s goal marked his 14th in the last 15 matches and his 50th in a Newcastle shirt, achieved in fewer games than the club’s all-time top scorer, Alan Shearer.

The Swede was pivotal again early in the second half, forcing a save from Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya with a quick shot. The rebound fell perfectly for Anthony Gordon, who pounced to double Newcastle’s lead.

Arsenal’s Missed Opportunities

Despite their best efforts, Arsenal failed to make their chances count. Havertz squandered a golden opportunity to reduce the deficit, miscuing a header with the goal at his mercy. Arteta lamented his side’s inability to convert their dominance into goals.

“That was the biggest difference in the game. In every other aspect, we were the better team,” said Arteta. “I have full belief. I have seen my team play against them, and I believe we can do it.”

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe adopted a defensive 5-5-0 formation for the final 20 minutes to protect the lead, successfully frustrating Arsenal’s attempts to find a way back into the match. The absence of the injured Bukayo Saka was keenly felt as Arsenal struggled to break down Newcastle’s resolute defence.

The Gunners must now deliver a remarkable comeback in the second leg at St James’ Park if they are to keep their hopes of silverware alive.