Arsenal and Newcastle Set for Thrilling Carabao Cup Semi-Final Clash
The Carabao Cup semi-finals begin on Tuesday night as Arsenal welcomes Newcastle United to the Emirates Stadium for the first leg of their highly anticipated two-legged tie. This match will determine who advances to the final at Wembley in March to face either Tottenham Hotspur or Liverpool.
Arsenal enters this game on a 13-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, having recently secured a 1-1 draw against Brighton. While the Gunners remain contenders in the Premier League, manager Mikel Arteta may prioritize cup success as the season intensifies. Their journey to the semi-finals included a thrilling 3-2 victory over Crystal Palace, with Gabriel Jesus delivering a stunning hat-trick.
Newcastle United, under Eddie Howe’s management, has showcased remarkable form. The Magpies secured their semi-final spot with a commanding 3-1 win over Brentford. Currently riding a five-match winning streak in the Premier League, Newcastle’s performances have propelled them to fifth place in the league standings, setting the stage for an intense cup battle against Arsenal.
Match Details
- Kick-Off Time: 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT
- Venue: Emirates Stadium, London
- Referee: Craig Pawson
- VAR: John Brooks
Recent Head-to-Head
Arsenal and Newcastle have had balanced results in their last five meetings, with each team claiming two wins and one draw. Their most recent clash saw Newcastle secure a narrow 1-0 victory in November 2024.
Team News
Arsenal
The Gunners face a lengthy injury list, with Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu all sidelined. Additionally, Ethan Nwaneri is out with a muscle injury sustained at Brighton. However, Jurrien Timber is available after serving a suspension.
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Ødegaard; Martinelli, Jesus, Trossard.
Newcastle
Newcastle will miss Callum Wilson, Jamaal Lascelles, and Emil Krafth, while Bruno Guimarães is suspended. However, Sven Botman’s return from injury provides a boost, and Joe Willock is expected to feature in midfield. Goalkeeper Nick Pope’s availability remains uncertain.
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3): Dubravka; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Tonali, Joelinton, Willock; Gordon, Isak, Barnes.
This encounter promises to be a fiercely contested match as both teams vie for a place in the Carabao Cup final.
