The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Newcastle United host Arsenal at St James' Park for the second leg of their EFL Cup semi-final on Wednesday night. With a 2-0 first-leg advantage, Eddie Howe’s Magpies are on the brink of securing a historic place in the final at Wembley Stadium. Meanwhile, Arsenal will need a comeback of epic proportions to keep their cup dreams alive.
Newcastle United’s Recent Form & Team News
Despite enjoying a remarkable nine-match winning streak across all competitions, Newcastle’s form has dipped recently, suffering two defeats in their last three Premier League matches. Their latest setback, a 2-1 home loss to Fulham, has put them in danger of consecutive home defeats for the first time since early 2021.
Eddie Howe will be keen to see his side rediscover their rhythm, especially with a crucial league fixture against Manchester City coming up. The Magpies remain without Harvey Barnes (muscle) and Jamaal Lascelles (ACL), but Callum Wilson could make a return after recovering from a hamstring issue. Goalkeeper Nick Pope is also in contention for a starting spot after sitting on the bench for the last two games.
Possible Newcastle United lineup: Pope; Livramento, Botman, Schar, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Gordon.
Arsenal’s Recent Form & Team News
Mikel Arteta’s side has bounced back strongly since their first-leg defeat, winning five and drawing one of their last six matches. The Gunners are riding high after demolishing Manchester City 5-1 in a statement Premier League victory.
However, Arsenal will have to cope without Gabriel Jesus (ACL), Bukayo Saka (hamstring), and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee). Ben White is nearing a return but remains doubtful for this clash. Youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly, who scored his first senior goal last weekend, is in contention for another start, while Ethan Nwaneri is pushing for a spot in the attack.
Possible Arsenal lineup: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Martinelli, Havertz, Trossard.
Match Prediction & Tactical Breakdown
Newcastle’s first-leg victory gives them a comfortable advantage, but Arsenal’s recent resurgence suggests they will push hard for a comeback. The Gunners need to win by at least three goals to qualify outright, something they haven't achieved at St James' Park since 2010.
While Arsenal may edge the match on the night with a 2-1 win, Newcastle’s defensive resilience should see them through on aggregate (3-2). Expect a high-intensity battle with both teams fighting until the final whistle.
Prediction: Newcastle United 1-2 Arsenal (Newcastle to progress 3-2 on aggregate).
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Final Thoughts: This clash promises to be a nail-biting encounter as Newcastle aim to end their long trophy drought, while Arsenal seek to overturn the deficit.
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