Arsenal vs Newcastle: One-nil to the Geordies

St. James' Park was packed to the rafters as Arsenal and Newcastle United played out a thrilling first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final. Both teams had chances to win it but in the end it was the visitors who took a narrow 1-0 lead into the second leg.

The match was played at a furious pace from the off, with both teams looking to attack. Arsenal had the better of the early chances, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli both going close. But it was Newcastle who took the lead against the run of play when Miguel Almiron's cross was headed home by Joelinton.

Arsenal pushed for an equaliser but they couldn't find a way through the Newcastle defence. The visitors were well-organized and they defended resolutely. In the end, Arsenal were left to rue their missed chances as Newcastle held on for a famous victory.

The second leg is set to be played at the Emirates Stadium on 24 January. Arsenal will need to win by at least two goals to reach the final.