Newcastle United seized control of their Carabao Cup semi-final with a 2-0 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, continuing Alexander Isak’s impressive goalscoring form.
Isak netted his 14th goal in 15 matches, putting Newcastle ahead and setting them on course for a seventh consecutive win.
Anthony Gordon doubled the lead in the 51st minute, scoring from the rebound after David Raya parried Isak’s shot.
Despite a promising start, Arsenal, second in the Premier League, were left with a lot to do in the return leg at St James’ Park on February 5.
Gabriel Martinelli struck the post when the match was still level, while Jurrien Timber and William Saliba both saw close-range headers fail to find the net.
Newcastle, who have won the English top-tier league four times and lifted six FA Cups, have not claimed silverware since their 1969 Fairs Cup victory.
However, their fans will be hopeful this could be the season they end the long wait for a major trophy.
With the second leg approaching, Newcastle supporters are eagerly anticipating a passionate night at St James’ Park, where they hope to complete the job and return to Wembley.
