Newcastle vs Arsenal LIVE: Carabao Cup semi-final result and ...

Newcastle United reached the Carabao Cup final for the second time in three years with a superb 4-0 aggregate win over Arsenal in the semi-finals.

Leading 2-0 after the first leg in London, Eddie Howe’s team banished any thoughts of an upset when Alexander Isak banged the ball into the back of the net with only five minutes on the clock. His goal was eventually ruled out for offside but the tone was set.

The crucial moments of the game came in the first half. At 0-0, Martin Odegaard had the chance to send Arsenal ahead but struck the post. Newcastle then swept up the pitch and Isak’s effort found the woodwork before Jacob Murphy turned the ball home. There was less than a minute between Odegaard’s chance and Murphy’s goal.

From there Newcastle were in control. They had less possession but more shots on target. Arsenal lost their heads and a high press brought a second goal. Fabian Schar nicking the ball off Declan Rice to set up Anthony Gordon.

Newcastle won 2-0 on the night and secured their trip to Wembley.

Relive the action from St. James’ Park with our live blog below:

Newcastle vs Arsenal LIVE

• Newcastle reach Carabao Cup final after beating Arsenal | Live on Sky Sports Main Event

• 52' GOAL! Newcastle double lead after successful high press (NEW 2-0 ARS)

• 49' CLOSE! Gordon wins the ball high and curls a shot wide (NEW 1-0 ARS)

• 19' GOAL! Murphy sends Newcastle ahead (NEW 1-0 ARS)

• 6' DISALLOWED! Newcastle's goal is ruled out for offside (NEW 0-0 ARS)

• 4' GOAL! Isak's blazing shot beats Raya (NEW 1-0 ARS)

Newcastle United FC 2 - 0 Arsenal FC

Wembley beckons for irrepressible Newcastle after damaging night for Arsenal

22:15 , Mike Jones

Newcastle United stand on the brink of history, 90 minutes away from ending their 70-year wait. Without a domestic trophy since 1955, 2025 may be their year. Wembley beckons and perhaps the club lamenting a lack of major silverware will instead be Arsenal. Unless they win either the Premier or the Champions League, Mikel Arteta’s side will bring up five years without a prize beyond the Community Shield.

It is not a drought by Newcastle’s standards but after the euphoria of Sunday’s demolition of Manchester City came a damaging night on Tyneside for Arsenal. They ended up overwhelmed by Newcastle’s relentless running, overcome by goals from two wingers, Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon, overpowered by a striker, in Alexander Isak, who they had coveted and who now serves as their tormentor. Arsenal’s winter transfer window ended without a signing, to their regret. Newcastle were as inactive but had further proof of Eddie Howe’s ability to galvanise them on a night when St James’ Park felt electrifying and United irrepressible. They played at a ferocious pace, with a hunger that showed them at their best.

Wembley beckons for irrepressible Newcastle after damaging night for Arsenal

More from Eddie Howe:

22:37 , Mike Jones

"We wanted to get pressure on them [William Saliba and Gabriel] and in order to do that we had to get bodies in the right areas and press high - that is how we decided to do it.

"You know you are playing against elite players and one mistake can make things difficult. We had to be ourselves, be front foot. If not then it can quickly be 1-0 and 2-0 and then you are on the back foot.

"We had to work on set plays as their set play threat is so high. In the reverse fixture there were some moments where we got a bit lucky. Again our team selection was based on having height, especially without Joelinton, we needed Dan Burn, Fabian Schar and Sven Botman. We defended the set plays really well today.

"It is huge [to get back to Wembley]. The first appearance there was a bit unexpected, but the club we want to be we have to be there regularly, so it's not a surprise. We are there on merit, our run has not been easy this year, we've faced four Premier League teams, so we have done the hard yards.

"Hopefully we can learn from the last experience and improve our performance."

Howe on Newcastle's gameplan:

22:33 , Mike Jones

"The work [on the game plan] started on Monday, which is quick. The Champions League last year helped us to work on those two-day turnarounds. We do tweak things depending on the opposition. We felt we needed more height in the team, we wanted solidity at the back and we had to change in order to win the game.

"The players followed the instruction to the letter, they deserve the credit. Fabian [Schar] had big distances to cover in his job, tracking Declan Rice whether he dropped low or went wide or went central. At times he went right across the pitch. He is a good athlete and is very capable of doing it."

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe speaking to Sky Sports:

22:27 , Mike Jones

"It was a great night for us. It was a tough game but tactically we were good.

“The intention was to be aggressive and sometimes when you do that it doesn't always work. Today it did.

“I thought it helped to solidify our plan. We had to retreat at times but we were always in the game.”

Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes on Sky Sports:

22:21 , Mike Jones

"Unbelievable performance from everyone and we must thank the fans as well. Here we go, another final for the club and hopeful we can win this one.

"I felt anxious before the game, big game, Arsenal a top, top team but when we play like that we become an amazing team.

"Play like that and we can dream big. It would be amazing to get a trophy, it is my dream to do this.

"Isak is the best striker these days for me. For me, the manager is amazing. He deserves the credit."

FT Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

22:21 , Mike Jones

'They're going to Wembley'

21:59 , Richard Jolly at St. James' Park

“Newcastle's PA announcer has just told their fans to book their train tickets and hotels.

“They're going to Wembley. Deservedly, too.

“Over 180 minutes, they have been terrific with Gordon and Isak contenders for man of the match and man of the tie.

“Now they have to wait and see if Liverpool or Tottenham await them.”

Full-time! Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:56 , Mike Jones

The whistle goes.

Newcastle are heading to Wembley after an superb performance in each of the two legs.

Arsenal have been blown away.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:51 , Mike Jones

90 mins: Four minutes of added time to play.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:47 , Mike Jones

87 mins: Declan Rice thunders into Bruno Guimaraes with a poor challenge.

The Newcastle captain gets to his feet and gestures for the crowd to go louder.

They do.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:45 , Mike Jones

84 mins: Newcastle are in total control even without possession.

Arsenal’s race is run and they’re going through the motions.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:41 , Mike Jones

81 mins: It’s now Eddie Howe’s turn to make a couple of substitutions.

Emil Krafth and Joe Willock come on to play the final 10 minutes or so with Sven Botman and Jacob Murphy replaced.

Murphy receives a loud applause for his efforts this evening.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:40 , Mike Jones

78 mins: The Newcastle fans have been incredible it must be said.

Everything on the pitch has gone their way but they haven’t stopped singing and cheering all night.

'Removal of Odegaard is intriguing'

21:39 , Richard Jolly at St. James' Park

“The removal of Martin Odegaard is intriguing as Arsenal don't play again for 10 days so while, at 4-0, the tie felt over, it is another thing altogether for the manager to seemingly accept as much by taking off his most creative player, when there is no immediate game to rest him for.

“But after losing Gabriel Martinelli tonight, perhaps he was worried about another injury.”

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:38 , Mike Jones

75 mins: Mikel Arteta has made a couple of changes. Leandro Trossard and Martin Odegaard have gone off.

Raheem Sterling and Mikel Merino are on.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:32 , Mike Jones

72 mins: Newcastle’s back five is solid and working well together.

Newcastle are also comfortable without possession.

Gordon trails Nwaneri and follows him to the byline and holds the winger at bay.

The youngster runs the ball out of play.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:30 , Mike Jones

69 mins: This will be Newcastle’s third victory over Arsenal this season.

Eddie Howe has outclassed Mikel Arteta each and every time with his tactics.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:26 , Mike Jones

66 mins: Gabriel curls a pass into the penalty area but Newcastle’s strong defence nod it away without too much trouble.

It’s been a fine defensive performance from Eddie Howe’s men coupled with some clinical finishes.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:24 , Mike Jones

63 mins: Ethan Nwaneri is still hungry for Arsenal.

He squeezes around Dan Burn and lifts a cross into the six yard box but there’s no one around and it bobbles safely away.

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:22 , Mike Jones

60 mins: An hour played at St. James’ Park.

Kai Havertz is bundled off the ball by Lewis Hall and the Newcastle fans cheer for their man.

They’re going to enjoy every minute of the rest of this game.

Newcastle could comfortably score more goals.

'The Newcastle supporters are singing about Wembley'

21:18 , Mike Jones

“The Newcastle supporters are singing about Wembley and understandably so.

“A second final in three seaosns beckons after Anthony Gotdon doubled their lead.

“Given his propensity to hassle and harry opponents, the manner of it felt fitting, with Arsenal dispossessed.

“And it was another goal against elite opponents for Gordon, who seems to save his strikes for such occasions.”

Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg)

21:17 , Mike Jones

56 mins: Arsenal are massively rattled. They know the match and the tie has gone.

All that’s left to play for is pride but Newcastle have been the better team by a long, long way.

GOAL! Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (4-0 agg) - Anthony Gordon, 52'

21:13 , Mike Jones

Game over. A shocker.

The pressure from Newcastle is too much for Arsenal’s frazzled defence.

David Raya tries to play out from the back and give it to Declan Rice.

Fabian Schar presses him up the pitch and wins the ball before nudging it to Anthony Gordon.

He slots it home at the near post.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

21:11 , Mike Jones

51 mins: Arsenal are starting to find a bit of control again.

They win a couple of corners back-to-back but can’t do anything with either of them.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

21:10 , Mike Jones

49 mins: Chance!

Oh wow. William Saliba is caught on the ball by Anthony Gordon who spies David Raya off his line.

He shoots from a long way out but curls the ball wide of the left-hand post.

That goes in and Newcastle are through.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

21:08 , Mike Jones

48 mins: Bruno Guimaraes slides into a tackle on Leandro Trossard and gets nowhere close to the ball.

He cleans out Trossard and dangerously catches him on the ankle.

Trossard stays on the ground and needs a minute before he can continue.

Second half! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

21:06 , Mike Jones

Alexander Isak restarts the match and Newcastle know what they need to do.

No changes at the break from Eddie Howe or Mikel Arteta so it’s as they were for both teams.

HT Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

21:02 , Mike Jones

Arsenal’s hopes a hanging by a thread.

They need three goals in 45 minutes with one of their attackers already injured.

Newcastle have been the better team over both legs so far and deserve their lead.

If they can score again or shut up shop in the second half this tie is over.

HT Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:58 , Mike Jones

Arsenal have had almost 69% possession in that half but the attacking stats are showing.

Both teams have had six chances with one on target.

Newcastle’s went in, Arsenal’s didn’t.

HT Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:54 , Mike Jones

Contrasting emotions.

Half-time! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:50 , Mike Jones

45+5 mins: The whistle goes to end the first half at St. James’ Park.

It’s a perfect outing for Newcastle so far.

There’s 45 minutes left in this tie, can the hosts get over the line and make it to Wembley?

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:46 , Mike Jones

45+2 mins: Close! The ball is sent out to Gordon on the left wing.

He cuts inside, rolls the ball onto his right foot and whips a shot towards the far bottom corner.

The ball just curls wide but the fans were excited once more.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:45 , Mike Jones

45 mins: Five minutes of added time to play in the first half.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:44 , Mike Jones

42 mins: As half-time approaches Newcastle have a firm grip on the match and the tie.

Eddie Howe will be pleased. It’s just a case of managing the rest of the match.

William Saliba drags Anthony Gordon back as a long ball comes forward and the centre-back goes in the book.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:40 , Mike Jones

39 mins: Gabriel Martinelli has a problem. He’s gone to ground clutching his leg and covering his eyes.

It doesn’t look good and Mikel Arteta wastes no time,

Ethan Nwaneri comes on to replace the Brazilian. If the injury is a bad one, Arsenal’s forward line looks very thin indeed.

'The fear for Arsenal must be that the tie is decided'

20:38 , Richard Jolly at St. James' Park

“The fear for Arsenal must be that the tie was decided by the minute in which both sides hit the woodwork, in which Martin Odegaard was inches from halving the aggregate deficit but instead they found themselves 3-0 down as Alexander Isak's shot came back off the post for Jacob Murphy to finish.

“Isak has been magnificent so far - his finish for the disallowed goal was outstanding - which may be of scant consolation to Arsenal, both because he is a former target of theirs and because they failed to get a striker in the January window.”

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:36 , Mike Jones

36 mins: Newcastle win a free kick over on the left side of Arsenal’s final third.

Lewis Hall floats it into the box and the ball drops for Fabian Schar.

He tries to shoot on the turn and pokes the ball out of play.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:33 , Mike Jones

33 mins: Arsenal are a little sketchy. There’s a frantic nature to their play which sums up the situation they’re in.

They need goals and time is running out so it’s go forward at any chance whether the pass is on or not.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:29 , Mike Jones

30 mins: Martinelli tries to weave around Lewis Hall but there’s no way past.

His attempted cross is blocked and goes out for a throw in.

The next attempt is better from the Brazilian as he sends the ball over to the far side of the penalty area.

Kieran Trippier is there though and clears.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:27 , Mike Jones

27 mins: Newcastle will have known they were going to have to defend deep this evening.

There’s plenty of time left in the game but Arsenal are pushing higher and higher.

Martin Dubravka has gone down a couple of times already and may be in a bit of trouble.

He takes a goal kick and grimaces as Arsenal win the aerial ball.

Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg)

20:24 , Mike Jones

23 mins: Save! Martin Dubravka drops low to deny Arsenal an equaliser.

The Gunners will start throwing everything at Newcastle as they have a mountain to climb.

GOAL! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg) - Jacob Murphy, 19'

20:21 , Mike Jones

This one should count!

A long ball from Martin Dubravka is won by Alexander Isak. He sends it to Anthony Gordon then receives the pass having darted in between the centre-backs.

Isak carries it to the edge of the box and shoots... the ball strikes the post!

It rebounds over to the right side of the box but Jacob Murphy is there first and he laces it into the back of the net.

Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal (2-0 agg)

20:19 , Mike Jones

18 mins: A scramble inside the Newcastle box sees the ball roll loose and comes to Martin Odegaard.

The Norwegian shoots but Sven Botman is there to block it.

Arsenal attack through the middle once more with Leandro Trossard backheeling a pass to Gabriel Martinelli.

Martinelli is hacked down but the referee lets play go on and Odegaard hooks his effort wide!

Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal (2-0 agg)

20:15 , Mike Jones

15 mins: Arsenal haven’t settled yet. They’ve been slightly rocked by the early goal (even though it got chalked off) and the hostility of the crowd.

Anthony Gordon dances into the penalty area and looks to roll the ball onto his right foot.

As he shifts it he gets tackled and the winger cannot get a shot away.

'St James' Park is rocking'

20:13 , Richard Jolly at St. James' Park

“St James' Park is rocking.

“There tends to be a terrific atmosphere for the biggest games on Tyneside, but this is loud, even by Newcastle's standards.

“It was louder still when Alexander Isak produced a wonderful finish.

“A marginal offside decision means it remains level on the night, but a few fouls are a sign of how competitive it is.”

Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal (2-0 agg)

20:10 , Mike Jones

9 mins: Thomas Partey shoulders Anthony Gordon to the ground and the Newcastle fans erupt in outrage.

They stil aren’t happy about the disallowed goal.

Lewis Hall whips in a free kick but Martin Odegaard manages to hook it clear for the Gunners.

NO GOAL! Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal (2-0 agg)

20:07 , Mike Jones

6 mins: Disallowed!

A two-minute VAR review ends with Isak’s goal being chalked off.

The striker was marginally offside and Arsenal have a reprieve.

GOAL! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (3-0 agg) - Alexander Isak, 4'

20:05 , Mike Jones

Wow!

That’s a superb goal. Bruno Guimaraes wins the ball in the middle of the pitch and finds Sandro Tonali.

He prods it to Anthony Gordon who plays a first time shot over the back of the Arsenal defence.

Alexander Isak runs onto the end of the pass, takes the ball into the box and smokes it past David Raya!

Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal (2-0 agg)

20:02 , Mike Jones

3 mins: A dainty little flick from Rice sends the free kick into the penalty area where Arsenal win a corner.

This set piece is played short to Gabriel Martinelli but he loses possession just outside the box and Newcastle sweep up the pitch.

Martinelli puts the burners on to get back and fouls Jacob Murphy. He avoids a yellow card though.

Kick off! Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal (2-0 agg)

20:00 , Mike Jones

Declan Rice gets the ball rolling in Newcastle and sends it back to David Raya.

The Arsenal goalkeeper boots it long and the visitors win a free kick after Anthony Gordon pulls down Kai Havertz.

Early opportunity for Arsenal.

Newcastle vs Arsenal

19:55 , Mike Jones

Martin Odegaard leads Arsenal out onto the pitch at St. James’ Park.

The atmosphere is intense and encompassing already and that will only ramp up with every minute that Arsenal trail.

Newcastle know they need to remain calm. They’re just 90 minutes away from a place at Wembley.

Can they get there?

Kick off is up next...

Three in a row for Isak?

19:50 , Mike Jones

Alexander Isak has scored in both meetings with Arsenal this season, with both being the opening goal.

No Newcastle player has ever scored in three different games against us in a single campaign.

Arsenal's lack of goals

19:45 , Mike Jones

Only against three sides have Arsenal failed to score in three different games in a single season in the 21st century (Liverpool in 2021/22, Chelsea in 2013/14 and Man Utd in 2004/05).

Newcastle would become the fourth team on that list if they keep a clean sheet tonight.

Why are referees announcing VAR decisions in the stadium during Carabao Cup semi-finals?

19:40 , Mike Jones

Referees will make in-stadium announcements on the outcome of VAR reviews in the remainder of this season’s Carabao Cup, marking a first for English football.

The EFL confirmed last year that VAR will be in use for the competition’s two-leg semi-finals and for the final at Wembley on 16 March.

However, the most significant move will be a pilot allowing referees to announce the final outcome of VAR reviews to spectators in the stadium and viewers watching at home.

Why are referees announcing VAR decisions in the stadium in the Carabao Cup?

'We need to create a positive energy'

19:35 , Mike Jones

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe spoke about the desire to engage with the home fans and how they can influence tonight’s match with the atmosphere they bring to St. James’ Park.

He said: “I think (our success) has been a combination of us and the crowd. I think we’ve become a really potent team together and I think that is what we are going to need in this game.

"We are going to need to engage all our supporters in our energy, body language and every power we possess to involve them in the game because we need to make this a formidable environment for our opponent. We need to create positive energy between us and it is our duty to do that.”

Can Arsenal win away from home?

19:30 , Mike Jones

Arsenal have lost just one of their last 10 away games in the League Cup.

They’ve kept eight clean sheets in that run.

Newcastle's immaculate record

19:25 , Mike Jones

Newcastle have won their last seven home games in the League Cup, keeping five clean sheets and conceding just two goals in that run.

History against Arsenal

19:20 , Mike Jones

Before this season, there have been 32 instances of a side losing the first leg of a League Cup semi-final by a margin of two or more goals.

Only one of those have progressed to the final, with Aston Villa overturning a 3-1 first-leg deficit against Tranmere in 1993/94.

Arteta on Havertz

19:15 , Mike Jones

The Arsenal boss explained why Kai Havertz is such an important member of the squad.

He said: “Kai has played so many games, and been so important when other players, some big players as well, were available.

“So it’s not because a player is not coming into his position that he’s going to be more important. In my opinion it’s nothing to do with that.”

Eddie Howe confident Newcastle will step up for cup semi-final after Fulham loss

19:10 , Mike Jones

Eddie Howe is confident Newcastle will step up for their Carabao Cup semi-final showdown with Arsenal after suffering a second-successive Premier League horror show at St James’ Park.

Two weeks after being humbled 4-1 on their own pitch by Bournemouth, the Magpies squandered a lead to lose 2-1 to Fulham, the worst possible preparation for Wednesday night’s second leg against the Gunners, into which they will take a 2-0 lead.

Eddie Howe confident Newcastle will step up for cup semi-final after Fulham loss

Newcastle team to face Arsenal

19:05 , Mike Jones

Newcastle XI: Dubravka; Trippier, Botman, Schar, Burn; Tonali, Guimaraes, Hall; Murphy, Isak, Gordon

'A big night on Tyneside'

19:08 , Richard Jolly at St. James' Park

“A big night on Tyneside.

“When Newcastle won 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium a month ago, the tie felt almost over. But with Newcastle losing their last two games at home and Arsenal walloping Manchester City 5-1, there are reasons to think a comeback could be possible.

“The first goal could be pivotal. That may explain why Eddie Howe has recalled the experienced Kieran Trippier.

“Arsenal, unsurprisingly, are unchanged.”

Arsenal team to face Newcastle

19:02 , Mike Jones

Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Odegaard; Trossard, Havertz, Martinelli

Can Newcastle beat Arsenal three times in a row?

18:55 , Mike Jones

Newcastle have won four of their last seven meetings with Arsenal in all competitions, as many as they had in their previous 45.

They’ve never beaten the Gunners in three different matches in a single campaign before.

A bleak outlook for Arsenal

18:50 , Mike Jones

Before this season, there were 31 cases of a team losing the first leg of a League Cup semi-final at home.

Only two of the previous 31 have progressed to the final, with Arsenal being the last to do so against Tottenham in 1986/87.

Newcastle vs Arsenal

18:45 , Mike Jones

Newcastle are aiming to reach the League Cup final for the third time, progressing from both of their semi-final ties in 1975/76 and 2022/23.

They’ve won both of their previous semi-final home legs.

Can Newcastle reach the final?

18:40 , Mike Jones

Newcastle reached the Carabao Cup final two years ago in what was their first Wembley final visit since the 1999 FA Cup final.

They faced Manchester United who ran out 2-0 winners in Erik ten Hag’s first year in charge extending Newcastle's long wait for a trophy.

Howe’s men are primed to make it to Wembley again and anything but defeat by three goals or more will give them a chance to reach the showpiece match.

White and Saka unavailable

18:35 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta gave a disappointing update to Arsenal fans when addressing which of his players will be fit for tonight’s match.

“There’s no news from the game against City,” he said, “Ben [White] is still out.

“Hopefully after the break, he will be available, [Bukayo] Saka not yet.”

Newcastle condemn ‘appalling racist abuse’ aimed at Joe Willock on social media

18:30 , Mike Jones

Newcastle United have notified police after midfielder Joe Willock found himself the target of an “appalling” racist online attack on Saturday evening.

The 25-year-old revealed he was abused on Instagram in the wake of a disappointing 2-1 Premier League defeat by Fulham at St James’ Park, the Magpies’ second in succession following Bournemouth’s 4-1 victory on Tyneside two weeks earlier.

Newcastle condemn ‘appalling racist abuse’ aimed at Joe Willock on social media

Can Arsenal win?

18:25 , Mike Jones

The Gunners will be confident about heading into tonight’s encounter.

Not only are they in fine form but they know that Newcastle have been beaten on home soil in their last two games, conceding two or more goals on both occasions.

It’ll need to happen again tonight if Arsenal are to make it to the final and Eddie Howe seems determined not to let that happen.

Will history repeat itself?

18:20 , Mike Jones

Only two teams in the history of the League Cup have overcome a home defeat in the first leg to reach the final, but Arsenal were the last team to do so when they famously pipped Tottenham Hotspur in 1986/87.

'We're at the halfway point'

18:15 , Mike Jones

Eddie Howe isn’t letting his Newcastle players get ahead of themselves due to their lead and has stressed the semi-final tie is only at the halfway stage.

Howe said: “My message is we are at the halfway point in the tie. Against any opposition, the game is still very much alive.

“We have to do our part but I think the quality of Arsenal and the team they have, we have to be on our guard.

"We have to approach the game in a really positive and aggressive way, try to be ourselves in every moment and there will be no deviation from that. We are in a good position and need to make the most of every opportunity.”

Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly makes himself known to the world

18:10 , Mike Jones

Myles Lewis-Skelly’s outrageous celebration in Arsenal’s 5-1 thumping of Manchester City announced the club’s 18-year-old academy star on to the world stage.

The audacious decision to goad one of the game’s blue-chip names in Erling Haaland followed a clash between the two players at the Etihad in September.

Haaland did not take kindly to Lewis-Skelly’s involvement in a post-match scuffle after the chaotic 2-2 draw.

Who are you? Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly makes himself known to the world

Arteta on bringing momentum into tonight's match

18:05 , Mike Jones

Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Manchester City at the weekend has given them a huge boost ahead of this must-win encounter.

They need to overturn a two goal deficit to win and reach the final but Mikel Arteta says his players will go ‘full gas’ to try and win.

“The next stop is a final in Wembley so we know how big that is and you can feel it,” said Arteta.

“The momentum is with us and we have a break (after the game against Newcastle) so now is the the moment to go full gas.

“We’re excited, willing, hungry and enthusiastic because we are very close to playing a final and hopefully we can achieve that tomorrow.”

No new striker is 'not a gamble' says Arteta

18:00 , Mike Jones

Of Arsenal’s failed striker pursuit in the transfer window Mikel Arteta added: “It’s not a gamble, it’s reality and we have to face the reality.

“I am not worried. Now I focus on the numbers that we have, how to maximise them, how to make the best out of them.

“With all the problems that we have already had, it’s remarkable what the team has done (this season) so I have full faith in them.”

Mikel Arteta ‘disappointed’ that Arsenal failed to sign a striker

17:55 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta admits he was disappointed Arsenal did not sign a new striker but believes it is not a gamble.

“We had a clear intention to explore the opportunities to improve our squad with players that can impact it. And we haven’t achieved that so we are disappointed in that sense.

“We are very aware that we only want to bring a certain kind of player in and we have to be very disciplined with that as well.

“After you don’t achieve it, for sure there are things to learn from it, there always are but you have to move on. Nobody knows whether it is better to have done it or not. We’ll know probably at the end of the season.

“But we’re going to have to be very flexible with the front line. Leo can play in that position. Raheem [Sterling] has played in that position. Ethan [Nwaneri], I think, can play in that position. [Gabriel] Martinelli can play there, too. At some point, we’re going to have to try something different.”

Why Arsenal didn't sign a striker in January and how Alexander Isak could make them regret it

17:50 , Mike Jones

Over the last few days, the only serious mention of Alexander Isak at Arsenal has been in preparation for Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup match.

They already knew he was impossible to get in the January window. They’re aware it won’t be far off impossible in the summer, perhaps even harder than pinning him down at St James’ Park to overturn a 2-0 deficit.

If it will no doubt irritate people at Newcastle United to start discussion of a semi-final second leg with talk of potentially selling their star, it is naturally framed by Monday, and what happened in the last few days.

Why Arsenal didn't sign a striker and how Alexander Isak could make them regret it

Howe on Llyod Kelly's departure

17:45 , Mike Jones

Former Newcastle player Lloyd Kelly exited the club in the closing stages of the January Transfer Window having made the switch to Juventus.

Eddie Howe was asked about his departure and revealed: "We were very reluctant from our side because Lloyd is a player that had recently signed. We believed in him and his qualities. It was slightly frustrating for him that he hadn't play more in part due to the other players in form around him.

"We're in a world of trying to manage PSR and try to make decisions that benefit us in the long-term and this is one of those decisions. Lloyd leaves with our best wishes. I'm sure he'll do well in Italy and it's an exciting, new challenge for him."

Eddie Howe issues injury update

17:40 , Mike Jones

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe provided an injury update on Callum Wilson and Joelinton.

The crucial midfielder hurt his knee in Newcastle’s Premier League outing with Fulham and Howe said: “Joey was, after the game, put in a knee brace just as a precaution and is out of that now.

“We'll assess how he is with this game and I would say he is a doubt but we will give him every chance to be fit.

"Our centre midfield, we have good strength in depth in that position currently. Joe Willock, Sean Longstaff and Lewis Miley – three quality players who will all bring something different and can step in.”

Speaking of Wilson he added: “There is a chance (with Callum). We have another training session to get through so we will see. Let’s get through training before we make a decision.”

What happened in the first leg?

17:35 , Mike Jones

Newcastle made the trip to the Emirates Stadium and successfully came away with a crucial lead in the tie.

Alexander Isak scored before half-time and almost added a second after the break but his shot was pushed wide.

Luckily for the Magpies it fell to Anthony Gordon who tapped home to ensure Eddie Howe’s men left London with a two goal advantage.

Newcastle and Arsenal now meet at St James' Park in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals with the hosts aiming to move one step closer to a first major trophy in 56 years.

The two reasons behind Arsenal and Man Utd's frustrating January transfer window

17:30 , Mike Jones

As the window closed on Monday evening, there were only a few clubs - maybe Manchester City and Aston Villa - who were in any way satisfied with their business.

One of the major issues with January signings was instead illustrated by two of England’s biggest clubs. Both Arsenal and Manchester United wanted to bring in forwards, and were still discussing options in the final 24 hours.

A huge problem was that the extra costs required in this window would almost certainly have affected better business later.

The two reasons behind Arsenal and Man Utd's frustrating January transfer window

Newcastle vs Arsenal prediction

17:25 , Mike Jones

Despite Arsenal’s resounding victory over Manchester City, Newcastle will make it far more difficult for the Gunners in attack and will offer a threat of their own going forward.

Expect a close game and maybe some surprises but Eddie Howe’s team should have enough ability on the pitch to reach the final.

Newcastle 1-1 Arsenal (Newcastle progress 3-1 on aggregate)

Arsenal realy team news

17:20 , Mike Jones

Mikel Arteta has no new injury concerns after the win over Man City, though both Bukayo Saka and Ben White are still a few weeks away from a return.

Takehiro Tomiyasu looks like a longer-term absentee, while Gabriel Jesus has been ruled out for the rest of the season after his ACL injury.

Predicted Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Nwaneri, Havertz, Martinelli.

Newcastle's early team news

17:15 , Mike Jones

For Newcastle, the only long-term absentees are Harvey Barnes and Jamaal Lascelles. Callum Wilson could make a return to the squad after a longer lay-off.

Joelinton could be another doubt after coming off against Fulham with a knee problem, with Joe Willock in line to replace him as he did at the weekend.

Predicted Newcastle XI: Dubravka; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Gordon.

How can I watch it?

17:10 , Mike Jones

It will be shown live on Sky Sports Main Event and Football, with coverage getting underway at 7pm. A live stream will be available via Sky Go.

When is Newcastle vs Arsenal?

17:05 , Mike Jones

The Carabao Cup semi-final fixture will kick off at 8pm GMT on Wednesday, 5 February.

Newcastle vs Arsenal

17:00 , Mike Jones

Newcastle face Arsenal in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie with the hosts looking to make the final of this competition for the second time in three seasons.

The Magpies are hoping for another chance to end their 70-year trophy drought, having lost 2-0 to Manchester United in the Wembley showpiece in 2023.

And they are well-positioned to make the final, having beaten the Gunners 2-0 at the Emirates last month.

Mikel Arteta’s side are in a buoyant mood after demolishing Manchester City 5-1 at the weekend, but while Eddie Howe’s men lost to Fulham recently, they tend to be far more impressive at home, and will be spurred on by a raucous St James’ Park crowd.

Good evening!

Tuesday 4 February 2025 12:10 , Mike Jones

Welcome to The Independent’s coverage of tonight’s Carabao Cup action as Newcastle United host Arsenal.

The Magpies hold a 2-0 lead on aggregate ahead of this second leg and are 90 minutes away from a place at Wembley.

Eddie Howe’s team are desperate to win some silverware and will planned to defend their lead against Mikel Arteta’s high-flying Gunners.

We’ll have all the team news, line-ups and updates throughout the evening so stick with us as we build up to kick off at 8pm.