The Carabao Cup semi-final clash between Newcastle and Arsenal promises to be a highly competitive encounter, particularly given both teams' recent performances and current lineups. Arsenal enters the match with a formidable midfield trio comprising Martin Ødegaard, Thomas Partey, and Declan Rice, while also featuring the attacking talents of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli. However, it is noteworthy that key players such as Bukayo Saka and Ben White are sidelined due to injuries, which may impact Arsenal's overall effectiveness on the pitch .
Newcastle face Arsenal in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie with the hosts looking to make the final of this competition for the second time in three seasons.
The Magpies are hoping for another chance to end their 70-year trophy drought, having lost 2-0 to Manchester United in the Wembley showpiece in 2023.
And they are well-positioned to make the final, having beaten the Gunners 2-0 at the Emirates last month.
Newcastle United possible starting lineup: Pope; Livramento, Botman, Schar, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
Arsenal possible starting lineup: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Martinelli, Havertz, Trossard
Arsenal will be without five senior players for the clash in Newcastle, however. Ben White is edging closer to a return but will play no part at St. James' Park, with the defender continuing his recovery from knee surgery. It's possible the Englishman makes his return in February, though. "No news from the game against City and Ben is still out hopefully after the break he will be available," Arteta said.
Arteta confirmed that Bukayo Saka is no closer to making a return from the hamstring injury picked up in the win at Crystal Palace in December, while Takehiro Tomiyasu and Gabriel Jesus are the two other long-term absentees. Neto, who is on loan from Bournemouth, is cup tied so will not make the trip up north.
Arsenal were awfully wasteful on home soil and were made to pay by an efficient Magpies outfit, with goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon helping Eddie Howe's men into a healthy advantage.
Newcastle entered the first leg as one of the Premier League's form teams, but they've stumbled since and have lost back-to-back games at St. James' Park. Their buffer is significant ahead of Arsenal's visit, but an early goal for the away side will shift the tie's momentum drastically.
On the other hand, Newcastle faces significant challenges with the absence of suspended midfielder Bruno Guimarães. His replacement in the starting lineup is Joe Willock, who will need to step up considerably against an experienced Arsenal side. Additionally, Newcastle will also miss Fabian Schär due to suspension . The team’s depth will be tested in this high-stakes matchup as they look to capitalize on any defensive lapses by their opponents.
As for broadcasting options for viewers eager to catch this thrilling semi-final at 8:00 PM GMT on January 7th, there appears to be no free broadcasting available in Canada or elsewhere . Fans must rely on subscription services like DAZN for live coverage. Overall, predictions lean towards a closely contested match where both teams have strengths that could potentially tip the balance in their favor.
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