Newcastle vs Brentford

At the St James' Park, the Magpies started the game with great fervour and enthusiasm. Allan Saint-Maximin caused Brentford's defence all sorts of problems with his dazzling footwork and blistering speed, and it was his menacing cross that led to Chris Wood's close-range finish, giving Newcastle an early lead.
Brentford regrouped and began to assert themselves on the game, but Newcastle's defence, marshalled by the imperious Fabian Schär, stood firm. However, just before the break, Brentford's relentless pressure paid off when Yoane Wissa found space in the box and rifled a shot into the bottom corner to level the scores.
As the dust settled on a thrilling first half, both teams knew the second period would be equally captivating. And so it proved. Brentford came out with renewed vigour, and their attacking trio of Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa, and Keane Lewis-Potter caused Newcastle's defence all sorts of problems.
Brentford's persistence paid off just after the hour mark when Mbeumo rose highest to head home a corner, giving the Bees the lead for the first time.
Newcastle, roared on by their fervent home crowd, refused to give up and threw everything at Brentford. Substitute Alexander Isak came close with a powerful header, but it was not to be. Brentford had done enough to secure a famous victory and a place in the semi-finals of the EFL Cup.
As the final whistle blew, the Brentford players erupted in celebration, while the Newcastle faithful applauded their team's valiant efforts. It was a match that had everything: goals, drama, and passion. And it was Brentford who emerged victorious, sending their fans into raptures and setting up a tantalising semi-final clash.