Arsenal – Newcastle United: The Geordies Stun Mikel Arteta’s Reds (0-2)

Newcastle United pulled off a shock victory over Arsenal in the EFL Cup in what turned out to be a fiercely competitive contest. Eddie Howe's defensive setup proved difficult to breach in open play. However, Arsenal's set-piece proficiency created opportunities, though they failed to convert them. Meanwhile, the visitors made the most of their limited chances. The Geordies will carry a two-goal lead into the decisive second leg.

Tactical analysis and match report by Fahd Ahmed

                                         

In an eagerly anticipated first-leg clash between Arsenal and Newcastle United - two teams separated by only five points in the Premier League - the encounter lived up to its billing. Both sides have recently been in good form, with Mikel Arteta’s side on a 13-match undefeated streak in all competitions and Eddie Howe’s team winning their last six games, including notable victories over Manchester United and Tottenham.

The managers fielded strong lineups, with Arteta making more changes to the side that faced Brighton last Saturday. Myles Lewis-Skelly and Jurriën Timber were included whilst Riccardo Calafiori was benched. Thomas Partey, who had featured at right-back previously, returned to central defensive midfield. Jorginho and Mikel Merino were replaced to accommodate the creative Martin Ødegaard. Lastly, the forward line saw two alterations, with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli coming in for Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Jesus. In total, Arteta made six changes. Meanwhile, Howe made just one change, bringing Joe Willock into midfield to . . .