Newcastle United dominated Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final, securing a spot in the final at Wembley after a resounding 4-0 aggregate win

Newcastle United are one step closer to ending a 56-year wait for a major trophy after a dominant display against Arsenal at a jubilant St. James’ Park. An emotional night on Tyneside saw Eddie Howe’s side secure their place in the Carabao Cup final with a resounding victory, setting up a clash against either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley.

Holding a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, Newcastle showed no signs of complacency. The electric atmosphere fueled a flying start, with Alexander Isak’s disallowed goal for offside merely a warning shot. In the 19th minute, Jacob Murphy capitalised, turning home a rebound after Isak’s initial strike hit the post. This came moments after Martin Odegaard squandered Arsenal’s golden opportunity, glancing a shot off the post with only Martin Dubravka to beat.

The Toon Army’s deafening support spurred Newcastle on. The decisive blow came in the 52nd minute, courtesy of an egregious error by Arsenal keeper David Raya. Inexplicably, Raya attempted to pass to Declan Rice, but Fabian Schär intercepted, leaving Anthony Gordon with a simple finish. St. James’ Park erupted as Wembley beckoned.

The Geordie faithful, eager to banish the memory of their EFL Cup final defeat against Manchester United two years ago, now dare to dream of a first domestic honour since their 1955 FA Cup triumph.

Despite pre-match nerves fuelled by recent home defeats against Bournemouth and Fulham, coupled with Arsenal’s 5-1 demolition of Manchester City, Newcastle thrived under pressure. The absence of the injured Joelinton was hardly felt as Isak tormented Arsenal’s defence, replicating his first-leg performance and playing a pivotal role in Murphy’s opener.

While the breathtaking pace inevitably subsided, Newcastle maintained control, ensuring their semi-final destiny remained firmly in their hands. Gordon’s goal was the catalyst for celebrations, paving the way for a triumphant finale.

Victory at Wembley would elevate Howe and his players to legendary status in the eyes of Newcastle supporters, who yearn for success after decades of near misses.

Newcastle’s jubilant fans didn’t miss the opportunity to taunt Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, whose complaints about the ball used in the competition after the first leg proved a costly misstep. Chants of “Mikel Arteta, It Must Be The Ball” echoed around the stadium as Arsenal meekly surrendered.

Arteta and Arsenal have no excuses. Newcastle comprehensively outplayed them over the two legs. Odegaard’s missed chance proved pivotal, and once Murphy extended the aggregate lead, there was no turning back.

Arsenal failed to replicate the form that saw them thrash Manchester City. Despite their efforts, inspiration was lacking, and Newcastle’s second goal extinguished any remaining hope. An injury to Gabriel Martinelli further hampered their cause.

The Gunners delivered an average performance across both games, ending up well-beaten. They must now refocus on chasing Premier League leaders Liverpool and securing Champions League qualification.