Isak Scores Newcastle Defeat Arsenal 2-0 in the League Cup Semifinals

Newcastle defeated Arsenal 2-0 in the first leg of the English League Cup semifinals, bringing them one step closer to winning their first major domestic title since 1955.

Newcastle advanced to the March final at Wembley Stadium thanks to goals from Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak at the Emirates Stadium. On February 5, the second leg will take place at St. James’ Park.

It’s a great result. It’s only the first half. If we don’t go through then this has no meaning, but we can’t hide from the fact that this is a massive win, Isak explained.

It was Arsenal’s first home loss since April and Newcastle’s first victory at the Emirates since 2010.

Isak scored his 14th goal in 15 games in the 37th minute to extend his incredible scoring streak. The Sweden international contributed to Newcastle’s second goal in the 51st minute when Gordon scored off the rebound after Arsenal custodian David Raya blocked his attempt.

Newcastle, who finished fifth in the Premier League standings and one point outside of the qualifying spots for European club soccer’s top tournament, is also vying for a Champions League berth after missing out the previous season.

Thanks to Isak’s outstanding goal-scoring performance, Eddie Howe’s team defeated Arsenal for the eighth time in a row in all competitions.

Jacob Murphy sent a long free kick into his path, and he blasted in from close range off the underside of the crossbar.

It was Isak’s seventh goal in his last five games.

Referee Craig Pawson did not check the sideline monitor in response to an apparent push in the buildup to his goal, even though in-stadium referee announcements were being tested for the game.

Newcastle’s second goal came from Isak’s incisiveness. Six minutes into the second half, Raya parried his attempt from within the box, but Gordon was the first to react at the far post and shoot.

Arsenal is now ranked second in the Premier League standings after going 13 games without a loss across all competitions.

When Gabriel Martinelli broke through in the 29th and fired against the post, it had the opportunity to grab the lead.

Kai Havertz had a great chance to equalise when his header from right in front of goal bounced off his shoulder and missed the mark.

The opening leg of Tottenham’s matchup with Liverpool in the other semifinal will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday.