Recent Form and Performance
Arsenal enters this fixture on the back of a 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion. Ethan Nwaneri scored early for the Gunners, but they were unable to maintain their lead, conceding a controversial second-half penalty. This result extended Arsenal’s unbeaten run to 13 matches across all competitions, though they remain six points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Newcastle United, meanwhile, are in scintillating form, boasting six consecutive victories, including a recent 2-1 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur. This impressive streak has propelled the Magpies into the top five of the Premier League standings and they will be desperate to continue this form and book a place at Wembley to have a chance to end a 56 year wait for silverware. Striker Alexander Isak has been instrumental, scoring in seven successive Premier League matches, underscoring his importance to Eddie Howe’s attacking setup.
Head-to-Head Record
The two sides have already met this season, with Newcastle edging a 1-0 victory at St. James’ Park in November, courtesy of an Alexander Isak goal. Historically, Arsenal has dominated home fixtures against Newcastle, winning 12 of their last 13 encounters at the Emirates Stadium since 2010.
Team News
Arsenal is contending with several injury concerns. Bukayo Saka remains sidelined with a thigh injury, and there are doubts over the availability of Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Raheem Sterling. Ethan Nwaneri, who was substituted at halftime against Brighton due to a muscle issue, is also a doubt. On a positive note, Jurriën Timber is set to return from suspension, potentially bolstering the defensive lineup.
Newcastle faces selection challenges of their own, with key players Fabian Schär and Bruno Guimarães suspended for this fixture. Defender Sven Botman, who returned from injury against Spurs, may feature, pending a fitness assessment.
Tactical Battle
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal is known for its possession-based approach, emphasizing quick transitions and width, particularly through the flanks. The absence of Saka may necessitate tactical adjustments, potentially providing opportunities for players like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard to step up.
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle has demonstrated defensive solidity combined with swift counter-attacking prowess. Isak’s clinical finishing and the creative support from midfielders will be pivotal as they aim to exploit any defensive lapses from the Gunners.
Prediction
Given Arsenal’s strong home record and Newcastle’s current form, this semi-final first leg is poised to be a closely contested affair. While Arsenal may have a slight edge playing at the Emirates, Newcastle’s momentum and attacking threat cannot be underestimated. A narrow victory for Arsenal seems plausible, setting up an intriguing second leg at St. James’ Park. The tip for this match is Arsenal to Win and Both Teams to Score. Boosted to 13/5.