The Gunners face Newcastle in a crucial semifinal cup tie in the Carabao Cup
Fresh off a massive win over Manchester City in the Premier League, Arsenal FC must now turn their attention to a pivotal second leg in the Carabao Cup semifinals against Newcastle. The Gunners have the tough task of overturning a 2-goal deficit when they visit the Magpies on Wednesday if they want to book a spot in the finals against one of Tottenham or Liverpool.
In a turbulent season, Sunday’s victory over City felt like the result Arsenal needed for their confidence, which couldn’t have come a moment too soon. The Gunners put on a spectacular showing of what they can do when firing on all cylinders. With their backs against the wall and elimination on the line, can they channel that same energy once again?
Arsenal were at their entertaining best against City and provided a glimpse of their true potential. Now, they must replicate that performance to overcome the deficit against Newcastle and secure a place in the Carabao Cup final.
Know the Enemy
Newcastle have had a solid season, led by the impressive form of striker Alexander Isak, who has scored 17 goals – the third-most in the league. Between December and mid-January, the Magpies were on a tear, winning 9 matches in a row across all competitions, including the first leg of the Carabao Cup semifinal at the Emirates.
However, they have hit a slight snag recently, with losses to Bournemouth and Fulham in their last three Premier League matches. Still, they pose a formidable challenge for any side and sit just 2 points outside the top 4.
Newcastle have managed their fixtures well, avoiding significant injury issues, which is a stark contrast to the struggles faced by Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham in that regard.
Under the guidance of Eddie Howe, Newcastle have a distinct identity, featuring a solid defense and midfield that can create problems for the opposition. If Arsenal can navigate the likes of Bruno Guimares and Sandro Tonali, they still have to contend with the defensive duo of Dan Burn and Fabian Scharr, as well as goalkeeper Nick Pope.
Last Time Out
When the two sides met in the first leg at the Emirates, Arsenal’s goal-scoring woes following Bukayo Saka’s injury in December were evident. The Gunners outshot Newcastle 23 to 7 but managed only 3 on target compared to the visitors’ 4.
Despite Arsenal’s dominance, Newcastle made the most of their chances. In the 37th minute, a long ball from a set piece was headed into the path of Jacob Murphy, who squared a pass for Alexander Isak to score the opener. The second half started poorly for the Gunners, as David Raya pushed a low cross into the path of Anthony Gordon, who doubled Newcastle’s lead.
Arsenal’s frustrations in front of goal continued, with Kai Havertz missing a golden opportunity in the second half. The visitors held on to the 2-0 result, leaving the Gunners with a significant deficit to overturn in the second leg.
Injuries & Suspensions
Arsenal came out of Sunday’s match against Manchester City unscathed, but they are still dealing with the absences of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus due to injury.
- OUT: Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Gabriel Jesus (ACL)
- RECOVERING: Ben White (knee), Takehiro Tomiyasu (undisclosed)
Predicted Lineup
Attack: Martinelli, Havertz, Nwaneri
Ethan Nwaneri’s late cameo against City saw him continue his ascendancy this season, and his fresh legs and growing influence could prove instrumental against a resolute Newcastle defense. Martinelli and Havertz will be crucial in providing the firepower upfront.
Midfield: Rice, Partey, Ødegaard
Mikel Arteta is unlikely to change his midfield trio after their impressive display against Manchester City. Rice, Partey, and Ødegaard have formed a formidable partnership, and their well-timed pressing and creativity will be crucial in overturning the deficit.
Defense: Lewis-Skelly, Gabriel, Saliba, Timber
The young Miles Lewis-Skelly has been a revelation, and his confidence will only continue to grow. Gabriel, Saliba, and Timber will form a solid defensive unit, with the potential return of Ben White after the upcoming break providing much-needed rest for Timber.
Keeper: Raya
David Raya put in a monstrous display against City, making several crucial saves, and he will be relied upon to keep Newcastle’s attack at bay.
Always Forward
The Gunners’ display against Manchester City was a testament to their capabilities, and they must channel that same energy and confidence against Newcastle. It was the type of performance we have all known them to be capable of, and they now need to replicate it to overturn the deficit.
If the team we saw on Sunday shows up on Wednesday, there’s no telling what they can achieve. Arsenal have the quality and resilience to turn the tie around and secure a spot in the Carabao Cup final.
Arsenal have not had much success in recent trips to Newcastle, with two losses in their last two visits. However, with so much at stake, the Gunners must reverse their fortunes and secure a vital victory. The battle is far from over, and despite the odds, it’s still all very much to play for on Wednesday. With some luck and a repeat performance of Sunday’s display, there’s always a chance for the Gunners to punch their ticket to the final.
WHO: Arsenal at Newcastle United
WHAT: The Carabao Cup semifinal second leg
WHEN: Wednesday, February 5th, 3:00pm EST/12:00pm PST/8:00pm GMT
WHERE: St. James’ Park, Newcastle
HOW TO WATCH: Streaming on the Paramount+ app
