Alexander Isak’s rich goalscoring form continued as Newcastle United took control of their Carabao Cup semi-final with a superb first-leg win against Arsenal at Emirates Stadium.
Newcastle have never won the competition but will make their second final in three seasons if they avoid defeat, or lose by a one goal, in the second leg at St James’ Park on 5 February.
Arsenal, second in the Premier League, started the tie as favourites, but now have it all to do in the return fixture.
Isak scored his 14th goal in 15 games to set Newcastle on the way to their seventh successive win.
Goalkeeper Martin Dubravka’s free-kick was launched forward, Sven Botman headed the ball on and Jacob Murphy played it into Isak’s path with the Swede lifting a composed finish past David Raya.
Anthony Gordon doubled the visitors’ lead in the 51st minute, converting the rebound after Raya could only parry Isak’s shot.
Gabriel Martinelli had hit the post for the Gunners when the game was goalless, with Jurrien Timber and William Saliba also failing to score with close-range headers.
Tottenham entertain Liverpool in the first leg of the second semi-final on Wednesday (20:00 GMT), with the final at Wembley on 16 March.
