Newcastle have booked their second Carabao Cup final appearance in three years.
Image credit: Newscastle United
Newcastle United have taken a major step towards ending their 56-year wait for silverware after securing a place in the Carabao Cup final with a commanding 2-0 win over Arsenal at St. James’ Park.
The result sealed a 4-0 aggregate triumph for Eddie Howe’s side, setting up a showdown at Wembley against either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur.
Murphy and Gordon Seal the Deal
The home side wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Alexander Isak causing early problems for Arsenal’s defense.
The Swedish forward had a goal ruled out for offside before playing a key role in Jacob Murphy’s opener in the 19th minute. Murphy pounced on a rebound after Isak’s shot hit the post, putting Newcastle firmly in control.
Jacob Murphy raises the roof! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/KKhWfLW49m
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) February 5, 2025
Arsenal’s best chance to turn the tie around came moments earlier when Martin Ødegaard hit the post with only goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka to beat.
The miss proved costly, as Newcastle continued to press with intensity.
The decisive moment came in the 52nd minute when a misjudged pass from Arsenal keeper David Raya gifted possession to Fabian Schär, who set up Anthony Gordon for an easy finish.
The goal effectively ended any hopes of a comeback for the Gunners and sparked celebrations among the Toon Army.
A Historic Opportunity for Newcastle
With the win, Newcastle have booked their second Carabao Cup final appearance in three years.
After falling short against Manchester United in 2023, they now have another chance to claim their first major domestic trophy since winning the FA Cup in 1955. The club’s last triumph in any competition came in 1969 when they lifted the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup.
Newcastle fans, who created an electrifying atmosphere at St. James’ Park, will now turn their attention to Wembley, hoping to see their team finally break their long trophy drought.
Arsenal’s Disappointing Exit
Mikel Arteta’s side, fresh off a 5-1 demolition of Manchester City in the Premier League, failed to replicate that performance against a determined Newcastle team.
The Gunners lacked creativity and cutting edge, struggling to break down a well-organized Newcastle defense.
An injury to Gabriel Martinelli added to Arsenal’s woes, but ultimately, their inability to capitalize on key moments cost them dearly.
With the Carabao Cup dream over, Arsenal must now focus on their Premier League title challenge and Champions League campaign.
What’s Next?
Newcastle now await the winner of the other semi-final between Liverpool and Tottenham, with a golden opportunity to make history at Wembley.
For Arsenal, it’s back to the drawing board as they shift focus to their domestic and European ambitions.
Newcastle’s passionate supporters have endured decades of near-misses and heartbreak. Now, they stand just one step away from glory.