Newcastle Edges Closer to Historic League Cup Glory

Newcastle United won 2-0 against Arsenal in the League Cup semifinals' first leg, moving closer to their first major domestic trophy since 1955. Goals by Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon at Emirates Stadium set the stage for the March final. The second leg is at St James' Park.

Newcastle United surged closer to a major domestic trophy for the first time since 1955 with a decisive 2-0 win over Arsenal in the first leg of the English League Cup semifinals. Goals by Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon at Emirates Stadium have placed Newcastle in a favorable position for the final, scheduled at Wembley Stadium in March. The anticipation now shifts to the second leg at St James' Park on February 5.

In an interview, Isak expressed the importance of the victory while acknowledging it's only halftime in the competition. Despite Arsenal's previous home invincibility since April, Newcastle managed to break their streak. Isak's goal in the 37th minute marked his 14th goal in 15 games, and he played a significant role in the second goal when his attempt was parried by Arsenal's keeper, only for Gordon to capitalize on the chance.

Despite the club's acquisition by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund in 2021, Newcastle has been starved of major domestic victories since their FA Cup win in 1955. However, their current form indicates a return to the elite, as evidenced by their push for a Champions League return and their seventh consecutive win under Eddie Howe. The upcoming semifinal between Tottenham and Liverpool adds further intrigue to the League Cup competition.

(With inputs from agencies.)