As Arsenal gear up to host Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium for the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With their Premier League title aspirations waning, the Gunners are eyeing domestic silverware as a vital milestone under Mikel Arteta. Meanwhile, Eddie Howe’s Magpies arrive in resurgent form, determined to seize their opportunity to edge closer to a long-awaited trophy.
Match Preview
The Carabao Cup has become a key focus for Arsenal, who have built momentum with a 13-match unbeaten run in all competitions. However, recent draws, including one against Brighton, have underlined their vulnerability. The semi-final presents a chance for Arteta’s side to not only prove their mettle but also end a prolonged trophy drought.
Newcastle, on the other hand, are hitting their stride at just the right time. Howe’s team is on a five-game winning streak in the league, complemented by a commanding 3-1 victory over Brentford in the quarter-finals. Newcastle edged past Arsenal in their last Premier League encounter, and with striker Alexander Isak in electric form, they’ll aim to replicate that success on Tuesday night.
Head-to-Head Record
Arsenal boasts an enviable home record against Newcastle, who have only managed one victory at the Emirates in the last 15 years. However, the Magpies will take heart from their most recent encounter, a 1-0 win at St. James’ Park in November 2024.
Team News
Arsenal:
The Gunners have been hit by an illness bug, with key players like Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli recently sidelined. Ødegaard and Martinelli are expected to return to the starting lineup, but Havertz may start from the bench. Ethan Nwaneri and Bukayo Saka remain out due to injuries, while Ben White could return later this month.
Predicted Lineup:
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Ødegaard; Martinelli, Jesus, Trossard.
Newcastle:
Fabian Schär is available for selection after serving his suspension, adding depth to Newcastle’s solid backline. With Sven Botman back from a lengthy injury layoff, Howe faces a welcome selection dilemma. Newcastle will likely stick with a physical, disciplined approach, aiming to frustrate Arsenal’s attacking threats.
Predicted Lineup:
Pope; Trippier, Schär, Botman, Burn; Guimarães, Longstaff, Joelinton; Almirón, Isak, Gordon.
Score Prediction
This semi-final promises to be a battle of tactics and endurance. Arsenal will look to leverage their home advantage, while Newcastle’s defensive resilience could make them tough to break down. Expect a tightly contested match, with Arsenal narrowly edging the first leg.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Newcastle
