Arsenal triumph over Newcastle in Carabao Cup semi-final first leg

Jan. 7, 2025, 9:30 p.m. Sports

In a thrilling first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, Arsenal emerged victorious over Newcastle with a 2-0 win at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners put on an impressive display, dominating the game from start to finish and putting themselves in a strong position to reach the final of the competition.

The match got off to a lively start, with both teams showing their intent early on. Arsenal, buoyed by the home support, looked sharp and focused as they pushed forward in search of an early goal. Newcastle, on the other hand, were content to sit back and absorb the pressure, looking to hit on the counter-attack.

It was Arsenal who broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, with captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scoring a clinical goal to give his side the lead. The goal came after a period of sustained pressure from the Gunners, who were rewarded for their persistence with a well-taken finish from their talismanic striker.

Newcastle tried to respond immediately, but Arsenal's defense held firm and kept them at bay. The Gunners continued to dominate possession and create chances, with Aubameyang and Bukayo Saka both going close to adding to their lead before half-time.

The second half saw more of the same from Arsenal, who continued to control the game and dictate the tempo. Newcastle struggled to get a foothold in the match, with their attacks lacking the incisiveness needed to trouble the Arsenal defense.

Arsenal eventually doubled their lead in the 63rd minute, with Saka scoring a superb goal to put his team in a commanding position. The young winger showed great composure and skill to beat the Newcastle goalkeeper and slot the ball into the back of the net, much to the delight of the Arsenal fans.

Newcastle tried to rally and pull a goal back, but Arsenal's defense held firm and denied them any clear-cut chances. The Gunners saw out the game in a professional manner, maintaining possession and managing the game well to secure a comfortable victory.

The win puts Arsenal in a strong position heading into the second leg of the semi-final, with a two-goal advantage to defend at St James' Park. Manager Mikel Arteta will be pleased with his team's performance and will be confident of finishing the job in the return fixture.

Overall, it was a dominant display from Arsenal, who showed their quality and class to overcome a tough Newcastle side. The Gunners will now turn their attention to the second leg as they look to book their place in the Carabao Cup final and potentially lift a trophy this season.