Newcastle United are gearing up to host Arsenal at St. James’ Park in the second leg of their EFL Cup semi-final clash. The Magpies hold a two-goal advantage after a strong performance in the first leg, but Arsenal are determined to turn the tide and secure a spot in the final.
First Leg Recap
In the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Newcastle United capitalized on Arsenal’s defensive lapses to secure a 2-0 victory. Despite Arsenal dominating possession, the Magpies were clinical in front of goal. Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon scored the crucial goals, giving Eddie Howe’s side a solid lead heading into the second leg.
Newcastle’s Recent Form
While Newcastle have a two-goal cushion, their recent form at home has been shaky. After their impressive win at the Emirates, the Magpies followed up with an FA Cup victory over Bromley and a Premier League win against Wolves. However, back-to-back defeats to Bournemouth and Fulham at St. James’ Park have raised concerns. Eddie Howe will need his team to deliver a flawless performance to fend off an Arsenal side brimming with confidence.
Arsenal’s Momentum
Arsenal, on the other hand, are riding high after a stunning 5-1 victory over Manchester City in the Premier League. The Gunners put on a masterclass, with goals from Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Kai Havertz, and teenagers Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri. This statement win has injected belief into Mikel Arteta’s squad, and they’ll be looking to carry that momentum into the second leg.
Team News and Tactics
Newcastle United
Eddie Howe is expected to field a strong lineup, with few injury concerns to worry about. Nick Pope could return in goal, but Martin Dubravka’s recent performances might earn him another start. Bruno Guimarães, who missed the first leg due to suspension, is set to return and will likely partner Sandro Tonali and Joe Willock in midfield.
Up front, Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon will lead the attack, supported by Jacob Murphy. Defensively, Sven Botman could replace Dan Burn to add stability at the back.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Dubravka; Livramento, Schär, Botman, Hall; Tonali, Guimarães, Willock; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
Arsenal
Arsenal have no new injury concerns following their win over Manchester City. David Raya will continue in goal, with Jurrien Timber and Myles Lewis-Skelly likely to start as full-backs. Declan Rice and Thomas Partey will anchor the midfield, while Martin Odegaard provides creativity.
In attack, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard will support Kai Havertz, who has been in fine form.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Martinelli, Havertz, Trossard
Key Stats
- Newcastle have won three of their last four matches against Arsenal.
- The Magpies have kept clean sheets in five of their last seven games against the Gunners.
- Arsenal are unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions.
- The Gunners have won their last eight away games.
Player to Watch: Declan Rice
Declan Rice has been a standout performer for Arsenal this season. His ability to control the midfield and break up play will be crucial against Newcastle’s dynamic trio of Guimarães, Tonali, and Willock. If Rice can dominate the midfield battle, Arsenal will have a strong chance of overturning the deficit.
Newcastle United vs Arsenal Prediction
While Newcastle have the advantage, Arsenal’s recent form and attacking firepower make them a serious threat. Expect a tightly contested match, but Arsenal’s momentum could see them edge it.
Newcastle United 1-3 Arsenal
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