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The Gunners are looking to have one foot in Wembley when they welcome Newcastle United to the Emirates for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semifinal tie. Here are predictions, team news, betting tips, and possible line-ups for the game.
The Gunners are desperate to add another trophy under Mikel Arteta and will see the Carabao Cup as a good opportunity to achieve that.
Despite the strides made under the Spaniard’s leadership, the FA Cup triumph in 2020 remains the only silverware Arsenal have won during his tenure.
Arsenal booked their place in the semi-finals with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Crystal Palace in the last round.
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However, their preparations for this crucial clash were less than ideal, as they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw at Brighton. A controversial penalty decision, which Joao Pedro both won and converted, left Arteta’s men ruing missed opportunities.
On the other hand, Newcastle United head into the semi-final brimming with confidence.
The Magpies breezed past Brentford with a comfortable 3-1 win in the quarter-finals and have carried their impressive form into the Premier League.
Their narrow 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Saturday marked their fifth consecutive league win, setting the stage for an electrifying encounter against Arsenal.
Arsenal vs. Newcastle United Head to Head
The Gunners boast a favourable historical record against the Magpies, having emerged victorious in 85 of their 194 encounters.
However, Newcastle United have been a force to be reckoned with recently, winning their last six matches across all competitions and scoring a whopping 18 goals in the process.
Arsenal, on the other hand, are unbeaten in their last 13 games, their last defeat a narrow 1-0 loss to Inter Milan in the Champions League back in November.
Arsenal vs. Newcastle United Team News and Possible Lineups
Arsenal head into the semifinal showdown without several key players.
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Bukayo Saka, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu have all been ruled out, adding to Arteta’s selection headache.
On the brighter side, Jurrien Timber is available again after serving a suspension that kept him out of the 1-1 draw against Brighton.
Youngster Ethan Nwaneri, who scored the opener against Brighton, was forced off at half-time due to injury. Arteta expressed concerns after the game, hinting at the possibility of a lengthy spell on the sidelines for the talented teenager.
Newcastle also face a host of absentees. Fabian Schar and Bruno Guimaraes are suspended, while injuries have sidelined Nick Pope, Callum Wilson, Emil Krafth, and Jamaal Lascelles.
Sven Botman made a welcome return from injury in the 2-1 win over Spurs, playing nearly the entire game. However, with only three days of recovery, he’s unlikely to feature against Arsenal, meaning Lloyd Kelly is expected to step into the starting lineup.
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Arsenal Predicted lineup (4-3-3)
Raya (GK); Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Trossard, Jesus, Martinelli
Newcastle United Predicted lineup (4-3-3)
Dubravka (GK); Trippier, Kelly, Burn, Hall; Longstaff, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Gordon
Arsenal vs. Newcastle United Predictions & Betting Tips
The Gunners have been rock-solid at the Emirates and will rarely get outfought on their ground. However, the Magpies have been in great form recently and will not roll over easily.
Arsenal to win or draw
Over 3.5 cards
Over 8.5 corners
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