Arsenal’s Recent Form: A Mixed Bag
After dropping two crucial points in a 1-1 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday, the Gunners are still unbeaten in their last 13 matches across all competitions. This includes an impressive 3-2 victory over Crystal Palace in the previous round of the EFL Cup. However, a bizarre penalty incident and a series of injuries have added uncertainty to Mikel Arteta’s squad as they attempt to secure a place in the final for the first time since 2017/18.
Key Injuries and Missing Players for Arsenal
While Arsenal remains strong at home, having won 12 and drawn just one of their last 13 games at the Emirates, they face several injury concerns. 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who scored a historic goal against Brighton, is doubtful for the fixture after picking up a muscular injury. Additionally, star players such as Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu are still sidelined, with Sterling possibly returning for the weekend’s FA Cup match. Kai Havertz is also racing against time to recover from illness, further complicating Arteta’s selection choices.
Newcastle’s Resurgent Form
Newcastle United comes into this semi-final tie in excellent form, winning their last six games in all competitions. The Magpies achieved a 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, bolstering their confidence ahead of their trip to London. Eddie Howe’s men have shown resilience, eliminating Premier League teams such as Nottingham Forest, Brentford, and Chelsea in their EFL Cup run. Although they’ve struggled historically at the Emirates, Newcastle has already defeated Arsenal this season in the Premier League, winning 1-0 at St James’ Park.
Newcastle’s Key Absentees
However, Newcastle will also be without some key players for the first leg. Fabian Schar and Bruno Guimaraes are serving bans for their respective yellow card accumulations, while long-term absentees Emil Krafth, Nick Pope, Callum Wilson, and Jamaal Lascelles will miss the match. Sven Botman, who was substituted against Spurs due to cramp, may be available, but with his recent return from injury, it’s uncertain whether he will feature. With several squad members missing, Howe will rely on players like Lloyd Kelly, Sean Longstaff, and Joe Willock to step up in the absence of the suspended duo.
Arsenal’s EFL Cup Hopes
For Arsenal, the EFL Cup represents one of their last chances for silverware this season, with the Premier League title race becoming increasingly difficult after Saturday’s draw. Despite the draw against Brighton, Arteta’s team has a strong home record and will look to extend their unbeaten streak at the Emirates. Arsenal's performance in the EFL Cup has been commendable, with the team progressing to the final in two of their last three semi-final appearances. Gabriel Jesus, who has been in fine form this season, could play a crucial role in the tie, with three of his four Carabao Cup goals coming after halftime.
Newcastle’s Challenge at the Emirates
Newcastle’s task will be challenging, as they face a daunting record at the Emirates, having not won there since 2010. However, they will take confidence from their current form and their ability to perform against top teams. With players like Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak, who have been key to Newcastle’s attacking success, the Magpies will look to exploit Arsenal’s defensive frailties. Gordon, in particular, has been influential in matches that ended 1-1, scoring three of his five goals this season to equalize in key moments.
Conclusion: A Tense Semi-Final Awaits
The upcoming EFL Cup semi-final promises to be an exciting and tense encounter between two in-form teams. Arsenal’s home dominance, combined with their injury woes, will be tested by a confident Newcastle side that has shown they can compete with the best. With both teams missing crucial players, the tie could come down to moments of brilliance from key individuals. Arsenal will be eager to take a first-leg advantage, but Newcastle’s resilience means that the Gunners will need to be at their best to secure a victory.
