Newcastle United has secured a spot in the EFL Cup final, defeating Arsenal 2-0 in the semifinal second leg at St. James’ Park. The Magpies will now face either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley Stadium as they aim to end a 56-year wait for a major trophy.

The home team made a flying start, with Alexander Isak having a goal ruled out for offside before Jacob Murphy scored the opener in the 19th minute. Murphy’s goal came after Isak’s shot hit the post, and the rebound fell kindly to the Newcastle winger. The goal was a significant blow to Arsenal’s hopes of turning the tie around, and they were unable to recover.

Arsenal’s best chance of the game came in the 19th minute, but Martin Odegaard’s effort glanced off the post, leaving the Gunners with an uphill task. Newcastle’s second goal, scored by Anthony Gordon in the 52nd minute, sealed the win and sent the Magpies to Wembley. The goal was a result of a mistake by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, who attempted to play a pass to Declan Rice but was intercepted by Fabian Schar.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe praised his team’s performance, stating that they had delivered a “professional” display. Howe also expressed his delight at reaching the EFL Cup final, saying that it was a “great achievement” for the club. The Magpies will now turn their attention to the final, where they will face either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, on the other hand, was left to rue his team’s missed opportunities. Arteta stated that his team had not been able to capitalize on their chances, and that Newcastle had been more clinical in front of goal. The defeat marks a disappointing end to Arsenal’s EFL Cup campaign, but they will now focus on their Premier League and Champions League pursuits.