Discover how Magpies’ tactical brilliance led to a decisive 2-0 victory over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup. Explore match highlights and analysis.
Introduction:
In a charged Carabao Cup tie, Newcastle United made all the right noises as they overran Chelsea 2-0 at St. James’ Park to reach the quarterfinal stage of the competition for the third season in succession. Three days after a very narrow 1-0 defeat in the Premier League by the same opponents, Newcastle finally got their revenge against the Blues, which may turn out to be one of Eddie Howe’s first significant results since taking over.
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First Half: Isak Scores First Goal
Newcastle began on the front foot, pushing Chelsea up the pitch and forcing early pressure on the visitors’ backline. In no time, Alexander Isak sent a threatening cross from the right flank that was met by Joelinton, whose shot was thudded against the post to start a high-intensity match. Chelsea was under siege from Newcastle’s press and had few clear-cut chances until the eighth minute when Sandro Tonali blocked a strong Renato Veiga shot.
Joelinton and Tonali Dominate the Midfield
Newcastle’s counter-pressing thwarted Chelsea’s approach in midfield. Joelinton and Tonali did an excellent job of pressing high up and winning the ball back in midfield. In the 23rd minute, Tonali laid off the ball for Isak, who finished with confidence to give Newcastle a 1-0 lead.
Own Goal from Disasi Helps Newcastle Runtimes may vary
Only four minutes into this stoppage, Joelinton and Tonali partnered each other to create more trouble again for Chelsea. Ex- Chelsea player Lewis Hall smartly took the free ball to Isak. After crossing it forward towards Joe Willock, he found another deflection by Axel Disasi of Chelsea towards their nest. This chance saw them take a 2 goals lead into half-time into the game.
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Second half: Chelsea Could not score
Chelsea Try Their Luck Again: In the second half, Chelsea pushed forward. They had a lot of vigor with which they played. Lloyd Kelly, for example, showed off his defensive prowess as he cleared a shot by Christopher Nkunku in the 50th minute, and there was no moment to make any further gain by Chelsea. Crucial saves by Nick Pope, Newcastle’s goalkeeper, also frustrated Chelsea’s forwards from getting anything into the net.
Newcastle Takes Command
Chelsea was pushing, but Newcastle’s backline was solid and strong. Sean Longstaff was on his 27th birthday, and he almost scored in front of the Gallowgate End when his goal was ruled offside. It seemed Newcastle’s backline with Tonali and Joelinton had sealed all of Chelsea’s moves.
Final Game Drama
As Chelsea pressed further, substitute William Osula hit the woodwork in the 84th minute. This was arguably Chelsea’s best chance of the match. Newcastle managed to repel Chelsea’s last efforts, and Pope made an important save on a final shot by Veiga to record a clean sheet.
Key Players and Tactical Insights
Isak and Tonali’s Impact: That is why Alexander Isak’s energy and creativity remained a key feature in the attack of Newcastle, even though he scored only one goal and gave the cross for Disasi’s own goal. Sandro Tonali’s midfield power has also been crucial; blocking and intercepting their team were necessary for Newcastle to build scoring opportunities.
Solid Defending
Newcastle’s defense, with Lloyd Kelly and Nick Pope in the team, did enough to block waves of Chelsea attacks, with Howe clearly emphasizing a solid backline. The Pope saves and Kelly blocks were crucial to be able to see out their victory with such ease.
Looking Forward: Magpies’ Carabao Cup Aspirations
This was the quarterfinal qualification for Eddie Howe with the Magpies, who, for the third successive time, sent Newcastle into the quarterfinals in the Carabao Cup. Newcastle is well-placed to aim for the glory of the cups with its young and experienced team.