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The Super Eagles star was missing in action as Southampton suffered a damaging blow in their hopes to win the EFL Cup final.
Super Eagles star Joe Aribo was missing as Southampton suffered a 1-0 defeat at home to Newcastle in their EFL Cup clash at St Mary’s on Tuesday night.
Aribo was an unused substitute in the loss against Aston Villa on Saturday but was left out of the squad completely against the Magpies.
Southampton are having a poor campaign in the league, with the Saints sitting joint-bottom with Everton.
Goalless first half
However, Nathan Jones’ men were on a good run in cup competitions and were hoping to reach the final of the EFL Cup when they welcomed Newcastle in the first leg.
However, Newcastle started the brighter of the two sides, with Eddie Howe’s men dominating possession.
Newcastle, who are on a brilliant run of form with no defeat since October last year, were dominant in the first half, creating a few chances.
The away sides had the two best chances of the opening half, but Gavin Bazunu stopped them twice. Not to be outplayed by the visitors, Southampton tried to make the game competitive and tested Nick Pope once before the break.
Joelinton breaks Saints' hearts
The second half followed a similar pattern as Southampton struggled to match the Magpies' intensity and play. Nonetheless, they were resilient in defence, although they also had Newcastle to thank for their profligacy.
But with 17 minutes to go, Southampton’s resilience was finally broken as Joelinton put Newcastle ahead following brilliant work from Alexander Isak.
Jones’ men did respond well and had the ball in the back of the net, but Stuart Armstrong’s effort was ruled out following a VAR review. The night got worse for the home side as Caleta-Car was sent off after he was shown a second yellow card.
The decision killed all hopes Southampton had left, with Newcastle taking home a one-goal lead into the second leg.
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