Arsenal controlled the game throughout the first half but failed to capitalize on clear chances. In the 30th minute, Gabriel Martinelli had a golden opportunity when he was one-on-one with goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, but his shot hit the post.
Then, in the 31st minute, Martin Odegaard also failed to score from a rebound in the penalty area, as his shot went over the crossbar.
Despite dominating the game, Arsenal were unable to convert their chances into goals. Newcastle, meanwhile, remained calm and waited for their chance. And then, they broke the deadlock in the 37th minute, when Alexander Isak scored the opening goal after a sharp counter-attack. Although Arsenal protested the collision between Isak and Odegaard earlier, the referee still allowed the goal.
Entering the second half, Arsenal continued to try to find an equalizer, but the absence of Bukayo Saka and the poor form of strikers like Kai Havertz meant they could do nothing more.
Newcastle continued to defend their advantage and in the 51st minute, Anthony Gordon's accurate shot made it 2-0, almost extinguishing the home team's hopes. Arsenal's late efforts were stopped by Newcastle's solid defense, especially the brilliance of young defenders like Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento.
In the end, Newcastle defeated Arsenal 2-0. With this victory, Newcastle now has a great chance to participate in the English League Cup final. The second leg of the semi-final will take place on February 5 at Newcastle's home ground. This defeat also marked the end of Arsenal's 13-match unbeaten streak.
