Arsenal vs Newcastle United Predictions

Both teams are equally capable of getting the better of each other and are in sublime form. Looking at the home advantage of Arsenal, the Gunners can score first, but the visitors are capable of a comeback, after a comeback win over another North London-based outfit and this result seems most likely. 

Match info: EFL Cup: Semi-Finals 1^st Leg

Venue: Emirates Stadium, London

Date: Tuesday, 7^th January 2025

Time: 9 pm Nigerian time

Bidding to make North London lightning strike twice in the space of four days, Newcastle United stopped over at the Emirates on Tuesday evening to battle Arsenal in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final.

While the Gunners could only take a point home from a 1-1 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday evening, Eddie Howe's men left Tottenham Hotspur's turf with a 2-1 success.

Head-to-head:

• Arsenal have won 81 of the 181 meetings between the two teams.
• Newcastle have recorded 63 victories.
• The remaining 37 clashes ended in draws.
• Only 1 of their last 10 meetings produced goal-goal.
• Newcastle have scored only 1 goal in their last 5 visits to the Emirates.

Form:

• Arsenal in all competitions: W-W-W-W-D
• Newcastle in all competitions: W-W-W-W-W

Team News:

• Arsenal will be without the services of Ben White and Bukayo Saka for this match.
• Newcastle, on the other hand, will most likely be without Nick Pope and Jamal Lewis for this clash.

Player(s) to watch:

• Riccardo Calafiori, the 22-year-old Italian center-back from Rome, has been making waves with his dynamic style of play and tactical versatility. After developing his skills at Roma and gaining valuable experience during a stint with Bologna, Calafiori joined Arsenal in 2024, marking a significant step in his career. As Arsenal prepare for their crucial semi-final encounter, Calafiori’s marauding runs down the left flank could prove pivotal. His ability to contribute to counter-attacks while maintaining defensive composure will be key as the Gunners look to secure a commanding lead at home.
• Sandro Tonali, the 24-year-old Italian midfield maestro from Lodi, has been a crucial cog in Newcastle United’s midfield since his high-profile move from AC Milan in 2023. Known for his vision, composure, and exceptional passing range, Tonali has seamlessly adapted to life in the Premier League, making 25 appearances and contributing a goal to Newcastle’s impressive campaign. As Newcastle United gear up for their highly anticipated Carabao Cup semi-final clash against Arsenal, Tonali’s ability to control the tempo of the game and orchestrate play from midfield will be vital. The Magpies will rely on his tactical intelligence and leadership to navigate this crucial encounter and edge closer to a coveted spot in the final.