With a 2-0 lead from the first leg, Newcastle United completed their route to Wembley with an identical victory at St James’ Park.
Goals from Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon sealed the win, while Alexander Isak’s aggressive pressing disrupted Arsenal’s defensive duo.
Howe acknowledged that Newcastle’s game plan was built around exploiting the struggles of Saliba and Gabriel, who had difficulty coping in the first leg. “We needed height, solidity at the back, and an aggressive press,” Howe explained. “The players executed it perfectly.”
A major factor in Newcastle’s success was Fabian Schar’s role in nullifying Declan Rice’s influence. “Fabian had to track Rice across the pitch, and he handled it brilliantly,” Howe added.
Set-piece strategy also played a crucial role. Recognizing Arsenal’s aerial strength, Howe emphasized the need for a tall lineup, bringing in Dan Burn, Fabian Schar, and Sven Botman to counter their threat.
Gordon revealed that Howe made subtle tactical tweaks to increase pressure on Arsenal’s defense. “I played more centrally, which made it tough for them to pick me and Murph up,” he told BBC 5 Live. “The gaffer deserves all the credit.”
With a place in the Carabao Cup final secured, Newcastle now awaits their March 16 showdown against either Liverpool or Tottenham, aiming to lift their first major trophy in decades.
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