Newcastle moved a step closer to a first major domestic trophy since 1955 with a 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of the English League Cup semifinals Tuesday.
Arsenal dominated the match in terms of shots and possession but were trailing by the 37th minute when Alexander Isak gave Newcastle the lead through a set piece.
The Sweden international was involved in Newcastle’s second in the 51st minute, when his shot was saved by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and the rebound was converted by Gordon.
Victory against Arsenal was a seventh straight win in all competitions for Eddie Howe’s team, which has been inspired by Isak’s brilliant goal-scoring form.
Despite being bought by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund in 2021, Newcastle hasn’t won a major domestic trophy since lifting the FA Cup almost 70 years ago. But it is close to second League Cup final in three years after losing to Manchester United in 2023.
Newcastle will host Arsenal in the second leg of the semifinals on Feb. 5, and aim to win their first trophy in 70 years by reaching the final at London’s Wembley Stadium.
