Arsenal's hopes of lifting the Carabao Cup took a significant blow as they suffered a 0-2 defeat at home to Newcastle United in the semi-final first leg on January 7, 2025. This loss not only halted Arsenal's impressive 13-match unbeaten streak but also marked their first defeat at the Emirates Stadium since April 2024, leaving them with much to reflect on before the return leg at St. James' Park.
Managed by Mikel Arteta, Arsenal entered the match with confidence after recent strong performances, but they found themselves stifled by Eddie Howe's Newcastle side, who looked determined to secure their first domestic trophy since 1955. Newcastle's victory is set against the backdrop of their remarkable form, having won six consecutive Premier League matches leading up to this encounter.
From the kickoff, Arsenal appeared more aggressive, generating numerous chances. Gabriel Martinelli was particularly influential, even hitting the post early on. Despite these early efforts, Newcastle took advantage of their first opportunity. Alexander Isak, who is rapidly establishing himself as one of the league's top forwards, got on the scoresheet using superb positioning and finishing skills. After the match, Isak noted, "I think it came down to a team thing. We have been solid defensively and then we have the quality up front.”
The pivotal moment came at the 39th minute when Isak scored his 50th goal for Newcastle. A high free kick from Martin Dubravka found Sven Botman, who outjumped William Saliba to flick on for Jacob Murphy. Murphy's deft touch set up Isak perfectly, who made no mistake, lifting the ball over goalkeeper David Raya.
The second half began with Arsenal needing to regroup but it was Newcastle who struck first again. Just six minutes after the restart, turmoil engulfed Arsenal's defense as Gordon followed Isak's first goal with one of his own, tapping home from close range after Raya parried Isak’s shot. Commenting on the importance of team spirit, Gordon stated, "It was all about attitude. It was unbelievable to a man.”
Despite dominating possession and generating 14 attempts on goal, Arsenal's finishing left much to be desired. Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber both wasted clear chances; Havertz's header from just yards out went awry, much to the frustration of the home crowd. After the match, Arteta lamented, "When we miss the chances we miss and then concede a goal, it is always tough. We tried it in various ways... but they defended with their lives and made a lot of blocks."
Newcastle switched to a defensive formation as the match progressed, icing their lead and frustrating Arsenal's attempts to penetrate. Howe’s team exhibited impressive discipline and resilience, capitalizing on their lead by absorbing pressure and snuffing out scoring opportunities for the Gunners.
The handling of the match was highlighted by Martin Dubravka's goalkeeping, with spectacular saves throughout the fixture. His performance was commended by Howe, who said, "Martin played really well and made some really good saves," emphasizing how pivotal the goalkeeper's contributions were to Newcastle's success.
Arsenal's challenge was compounded by the absence of key player Bukayo Saka, dealing Arteta tactical blows—having to juggle player positions and roles as he searched for ways to counter Newcastle's defensive setup. This adjustment saw players like Leandro Trossard and Havertz shifting positions to fill the gaps left by Saka's absence.
Going forward to the return leg, Arsenal faces the monumental task of overcoming the two-goal deficit. Historically, it has proven challenging to recover from such positions—nine teams have won away from home in the first leg of League Cup semi-finals, but only one has advanced. Arteta and his players have their work clearly cut out for them as they prepare to bring their scoring boots to St. James' Park.
The fixture's correlation to the club's aspirations is monumental. Newcastle, on the hunt for their first trophy in 70 years, see this opportunity as potentially transformative, both for their players and fans. How they handle the returning fixture will be telling of their mettle. Meanwhile, for Arsenal, the stakes may well define their season: can they convert mounting pressure and expectations back at home?
The grim reality of tonight's loss looms large, highlighting the need for sharper finishing moving forward if they are to turn around their fortunes and defy history's odds when they meet Newcastle again next month. The stage is set for what could be the definitive moment for both clubs as they chase their goals: for Newcastle, the promise of glory; for Arsenal, the need to reclaim their pride.