More stories

  • in

    Liverpool 4-0 Tottenham LIVE RESULT: Rampant Reds THRASH Spurs to reach Carabao Cup final and leave Ange on the brink

    LIVERPOOL have thrashed Tottenham to set up a blockbuster Carabao Cup final against Newcastle.The Reds overturned the 1-0 deficit from the semi-final first leg into a 4-0 battering in the second leg after goals from Cody Gakpo, Mo Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai and Virgil van Dijk.And the result puts more pressure on Spurs’ under-fire boss Ange Postecoglou.The Magpies await in the big final after their dominant 4-0 aggregate win over Arsenal.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…”I have no idea” – Van DijkWell, I guess the only slight blot on Liverpool’s horizons is the future of a few of their players, including Virgil Van Dijk.But he’s still keeping his cards close to his chest.Asked about his contract situation, the Liverpool captain responded: “What the future brings I have no idea. Anybody who says they know it – they are wrong.”Copy linkCopied”They were too good” – PostecoglouTottenham boss Ange Postecoglou, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live: “Liverpool were too good for us tonight. We didn’t get into the game in the way we wanted to. We allowed them to get control of it.”When they get into a rhythm, we didn’t give ourselves an opportunity to get a foothold in the game.”We were way too passive in terms of our football with and without the ball. I think it is a lesson there for us. We cannot shy away from the football that we want to play.”On a second season trophy: “We have given up a good opportunity tonight and we cannot shy away from that.“We were in a good position to get to the final. Nobody needs to pick me up, I just need to pick up the players.”Credit: GETTYCopy linkCopied”We will be ready” – Van DijkLiverpool captain Virgil van Dijk speaking to ITV: “We did very well. I am proud of the boys and now we look forward to the FA Cup. Gakpo is doing very well, we need him in the best shape of his life but he is doing so well.”Everyone has to contribute scoring goals. We will face a very intense Newcastle. When the time is right we will prepare well. I’m always proud to be leading out the boys, but these occasions are special… when the time is there, we will be ready.”Copy linkCopied”We didn’t grab it” – PostecoglouTottenham boss Ange Postecoglou, speaking to Sky Sports: “I guess that Liverpool deserved the victory. They were the far better team – we were not able to get a grip of the game.”They were too good for us. We allowed them to get into the game and we were not as aggressive as we needed to be. We didn’t get the game started off in the right footing.”It was very difficult for us to wrestle that control back. We definitely needed to be braver with and without the ball. They’re a very good Liverpool team in a good spell of form and they’re very settled.”On the second half: “We knew the first 20 minutes we had to keep it solid in terms of our decision making and to give them a second goal is disappointing. We never got to grips with any part of the game.”On feeling lonely: “No, it is not an emotion I feel. I am disappointed that we didn’t give a good account of ourselves.”On players’ reaction: “Very disappointed. We had a great opportunity, but unfortunately we didn’t grab it.”Credit: gettyCopy linkCopiedOuch”I think Accrington Stanley gave more than Tottenham tonight,” Jamie Carragher said.He did caveat that by saying he’s not trying to make headlines. Might be unsuccessful with that one, Jamie.Copy linkCopied’A training game'”I didn’t like the body language from the Spurs players – they were just jogging around,” Dion Dublin told the BBC.”With Liverpool’s attitude towards winning they made it look like a training game.”Copy linkCopiedRecordsSo that’s a record-extending 15th League Cup final for Liverpool. They are already the competition’s most successful side with 10 wins – two ahead of Manchester City.Copy linkCopied”When do Spurs ever win a big game?” – Carragher”It was never in doubt before the game. It’s Tottenham! When do Tottenham ever win a big game? When do Tottenham ever go and surprise, win against the odds?”The odds were massively in favour against Liverpool, they’re at Anfield, they’re the best team in the country, possibly the best team in Europe right now.”But it’s not just this Spurs team. They never shock you, never do something out of the ordinary.”I’m trying to remember the last big game they won: it was probably that semi-final against Ajax in the Champions League. I was in the stadium that night and I don’t want to take it away from Tottenham, but they were very lucky! They were battered for most of the game, it was a freak and they got two goals in the last minute.”Whenever they go into a big game as a club, nobody ever believes they’re going to win. That’s not me as a Liverpool fan, those Tottenham fans there tonight – not one of them believed they were going to win and to go Wembley! They just won’t.”Credit: GETTYCopy linkCopied”It was a great win” – GakpoLiverpool goalscorer Cody Gakpo, speaking to Sky Sports: “I think the stadium helped a lot. We knew we had to come back. We went out there and tried to bring as much chances as possible. With the quality we have, we know we are going to get chances.”It was a great win.”They [Liverpool fans] helped us a lot and it gives us extra energy. We are very happy with these fans.”We are on the right track, but we have to take it game-by-game. Today it was a good job done – we are in one final, but we have a lot to play for.”We are in a good flow at the moment, but we have to keep going. You know how football goes and it’s about consistency. We have to keep the momentum.”Mr CarabaoCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedNext up?It doesn’t get much easier for Tottenham, who will have to travel to face Aston Villa in the fourth round of the FA Cup without Richarlison on Sunday.As for Liverpool, they also have some travelling to do but it’s against the Championship’s bottom club Plymouth.Copy linkCopied”A damaging performance” – Michael DawsonFormer Spurs defender Michael Dawson perhaps wasn’t as… hard-hitting… as Jamie Redknapp, but he’s not impressed either — saying Tottenham lacked desire to “keep the ball out.””It was really, really damaging that performance,” he told Sky Sports.”I knew it was going to be a tough task but did I expect it to be like that? I thought there would be more of a fight from the players.”It was always going to be backs against the wall but they didn’t show any character in possession, out of possession and they didn’t how any desire to keep the ball out of the back of the net.”To come here and get beat 4-0 without any fight and without a shot on target, it’s a damaging performance.”Copy linkCopiedMatch reportBig Ange Postecoglou proudly boasts that he ‘always’ wins a trophy in his second season at a club – well his chances are diminishing.Arne Slot, who makes no such brags, has clear sights on a quadruple after Liverpool swept aside a patched-up Tottenham to reach the Carabao Cup Final against Newcastle on March 16.The only consolation for Spurs boss Postecoglou is that Slot’s men aren’t competing in the Europa League – a competition in which the north London side have reached the last 16…Read the full match report from The Sun’s Chief Sports Writer, Dave Kidd.Thumbs upCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedThe finalSo now we know.It’s Liverpool who will play Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley on Sunday, 16 March.Copy linkCopied”I feel sorry for those players” – Jamie RedknappJamie Redknapp hasn’t held back in his assessment of Tottenham tonight. Spurs ended that clash without a single shot on target, which is the first time ever under manager Ange Postecoglou.”I can’t remember in my lifetime a team go down with less of a fight than Tottenham did today. Not having any shot on target in a semi-final second leg when trying to change the course of your history,” he told Sky Sports.”I felt sorry for their young players. Djed Spence played 14 different positions tonight. I’ve never seen anything like it.”The experienced players need to make sure they set the right tempo. They didn’t do that one bit. There’s been some lows but that today, looking at that scoreline, is just horrendous.”No shots on targetCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedColossusSince making his Liverpool debut in January 2018, Virgil van Dijk has more goals in all competitions than any other Premier League defender (26).Copy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 4-0 TOTTENHAMFT: And that’s that, folks. Liverpool have demolished Tottenham in the Carabao Cup second leg to win 4-1 on aggregate.Arne Slot’s side are still fighting on four fronts this season, and are one game away from successfully defending their League Cup title against Newcastle next month.As for Tottenham? It’s back to the drawing board.StraightforwardCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 4-0 TOTTENHAM90: Three minutes of added time.Credit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 4-0 TOTTENHAM89: Liverpool’s four goals tonight take them to 521 goals in the League Cup, the outright most in the competition’s history.Copy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 4-0 TOTTENHAM86: It should be five. Dominik Szoboszlai swings in a free-kick and Diogo Jota has a free header inside the penalty area but guides it wide.Jarell Quansah replaces captain Virgil van Dijk, who gets a big hug from Dutch compatriot Cody Gakpo on the bench.Copy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 4-0 TOTTENHAM84: “Liverpool have not got into the high gears tonight,” says former Aston Villa striker Dion Dublin.”It goes to show where Spurs are – pretty poor.”Copy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 4-0 TOTTENHAM83: Arne Slot has the luxury of making a few changes with Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo heading off to be replaced by Harvey Elliott and Luis Diaz.Must be saving them for that challenging trip to Plymouth.Copy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 4-0 TOTTENHAM – VAN DIJK80: Goal! It’s a rout, folks.Tottenham are heading back down the M6 with a lot of thinking to do as Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk grabs a fourth for the Merseyside winning machine.A corner is whipped in by Alexis Mac Allister and VVD rises unchallenged to head it emphatically beyond Kinsky.Flying DutchmanCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 3-0 TOTTENHAM79: The woodwork is rattled for the fourth time tonight as Son gets in down the left and slams a rising effort against the crossbar.Copy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 3-0 TOTTENHAM78: Those 6,000 travelling Tottenham fans are now silent. Daniel Levy doesn’t look much happier in the stands. He’s got a very big decision on his hands now.Stick or twist with Ange Postecoglou?Copy linkCopiedLIVERPOOL 3-0 TOTTENHAM – SZOBOSZLAI76: Goal! Game, set and match.Liverpool are going to Wembley as Dominik Szoboszlai grabs a third for the hosts. It’s a well-crafted goal with Mac Allister finding Bradley, who knocks it onto Szoboszlai first time and the midfielder makes no mistake.Szoboszlai celebratesCredit: GETTYCopy linkCopied More

  • in

    Liverpool vs Tottenham live stream FREE – how to watch Carabao Cup semi-final

    LIVERPOOL welcome Tottenham to Anfield for the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final TONIGHT!Spurs arrive on Merseyside with a slender one-goal lead after they stunned the Premier League leaders with a 1-0 win in the first leg.Lucas Bergvall’s late strike in the first leg is what separates the two sides ahead of the reverse legCredit: GettyLucas Bergvall’s 86th-minute strike was the matchwinner in early January, leaving Liverpool with it all to do this evening.Many will fancy Arne Slot’s men to turn the tie on its head, with the Reds leading the scoring charts in the Premier League this term and Spurs having a leaky, inexperienced backline.Tonight’s blockbuster Carabao Cup semi-final second leg will not be one you will want to miss – and you can tune in for absolutely NOTHING!How to watch Liverpool vs Tottenham for FREELiverpool vs Tottenham will be broadcast for FREE on ITV1.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans can live stream the crunch Carabao Cup semi-final second leg via the ITVX app/website.This follows an agreement between Sky Sports, ITV, and the EFL to give all UK football fans the chance to watch free-to-air coverage of select Carabao Cup and EFL fixtures.Sky Sports Football will also be airing the match, but you will require a valid Sky Sports subscription to watch the game on that channel.Alternatively, you can keep up to date with all the action by following SunSport’s live blog of Liverpool vs Tottenham.Most read in FootballWhat happened in the other Carabao Cup semi-final?Newcastle brought a two-goal lead back to Tyneside after Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon fired the Magpies to a 2-0 win at Arsenal in the first leg.The Gunners left themselves with it all to do in front of a raucous St James’ Park on Wednesday night.But it was Eddie Howe’s men that looked the most dangerous from the off despite having a two-goal advantage.Jacob Murphy extended the Toon’s aggregate lead to 3-0 early in the first half after he tapped in from close range following Isak’s shot cannoning off the inside of the post.Just after the interval, things got even better for the North East outfit after Gordon pounced on a slack pass from David Raya to all but send the Geordies to Wembley.Arsenal failed to complete a comeback for the ages, meaning Newcastle await in March’s blockbuster final for either Liverpool or Tottenham.Newcastle have secured their spot in the Carabao Cup finalCredit: GettyUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

  • in

    Who is Liverpool vs Tottenham referee Craig Pawson and how do in-stadium VAR announcements work?

    LIVERPOOL and Tottenham are set to clash in a HUGE semi-final tie at Anfield, with both sides aiming for a spot in the Carabao Cup final.Craig Pawson will take charge of the game, with VAR set to continue their trial of in-stadium announcements.Craig Pawson will take charge of the second leg between Tottenham and LiverpoolLucas Bergvall controversially scored the only goal in the first legArne Slot and Liverpool go into the second leg with a mountain to climb, having lost the first leg at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.Lucas Bergvall controversially scored the winner for Tottenham, having not seen a second yellow card for a late challenge on Curtis Jones earlier in the game.How do the VAR in-stadium announcements work?VAR has implemented the in-stadium announcements as part of an ongoing trial during the Carabao Cup semi-finals.As usual, the Video Assistant Referee can make decisions in the event of foul play or can advise the referee to go to the monitor to review a decision.Read more FootballLIVERPOOL VS SPURS – LATEST UPDATESIn these instances, once the referee or VAR has made a decision, the on-field referee will broadcast his decision to the stadium via the PA system.The first time this was used in the Carabao Cup was during the first leg of this tie, when Dominic Solanke had a goal ruled out for offside. The system had seen a successful trial at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.Most read in FootballWho is Craig Pawson?Craig Pawson is an English referee who will take charge of the Carabao Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Tottenham.Pawson has been a referee in the Premier League since 2013, after spending a spell as a referee in the Football League between 2008-13.He had been a FIFA listed referee since 2015, but stepped down in 2024.‘The ref made a mistake’ – Virgil van Dijk furious at Bergvall’s winner moments after Spurs star should have seen redWill there be extra time in the Liverpool vs Tottenham game?If Liverpool score once and Tottenham fail to reply then yes, there will be extra time.The game will have an extra 30 minutes should it end level on aggregate after 90 minutes.If the scores remain level after extra time, then the game will be decided by a penalty shootout.What TV channel is Liverpool vs Tottenham on and can the match be live streamed FREE?The Carabao Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Tottenham will be available to watch on Sky Sports, as well as ITV1.The game is available for stream on Sky Go or the Sky Sports app, and will also be available for FREE on the ITVX app/website.The game will kick-off at 8pm GMT from Anfield, with coverage set to start around an hour and a half prior to kick-off.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

  • in

    Laura Woods gives Adam Collard a telling off as they watch Newcastle vs Arsenal and reveal who their baby is supporting

    LAURA WOODS gave boyfriend Adam Collard a telling-off during the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg between Newcastle and Arsenal.Arsenal looked to overturn a 2-0 deficit at St. James’ Park on Wednesday night to reach the final of the tournament.Avid Arsenal fan Laura Woods was taunted by her Newcastle supporting partner Adam CollardCredit: INSTAGRAM@ADAMCOLLARDArsenal were dumped out of the Carabao Cup by Newcastle on Wednesday nightCredit: REXBut Mikel Arteta’s troops ended up suffering a 2-0 defeat on the night, losing the tie 4-0 on aggregate.TNT Sports presenter Woods and her former Love Island star partner Collard once again put aside their love for one another for 90 minutes to support the Gunners and the Magpies respectively.During the match, Collard posted a video of himself celebrating as he sat next to Woods – who was holding their newborn son Leo – to his Instagram story.And the brief clip, in which Woods wagged her finger at Collard in response to his taunting, seemingly revealed which team Leo will grow up supporting.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe tiny tot – who was welcomed into the world last month – was wearing a Newcastle babygrow with “Toon Army” emblazoned across it as he lay on a cushion on top of his mum’s legs.Collard revealed to the world that he’ll raise Leo as a Newcastle fan before the first leg of the semi-final.He did so by sharing an adorable snap of him lying down in a baby grow which had “mini magpie” written on it.Woods, an avid Arsenal fan, was far from happy.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe couple’s newborn baby will seemingly be raised a Newcastle fanCredit: INSTAGRAM@ADAMCOLLARDLaura Wood and Adam Collard started dating in October 2023Credit: Insagram / @adamcollardThe couple have been the picture of happiness ever sinceCredit: InstagramShe reshared Collard’s story to her own and jokingly wrote “fuming” at the bottom of the photo.Gunners boss Arteta was similarly fuming at his troops’ exit from the competition.Arsenal vs NewcastleThe Spaniard said: “We had so many expectations to believe that we could turn it around.”We didn’t generate momentum, especially in the first half, the game started in the first action almost with them scoring and then the goal being denied.”Then we had the moment, two big moments, with Martin [Odegaard].”We didn’t capitalise and in the next action, they scored the goal and, obviously, the game shifted and then you need to stay cool to score a goal as early as possible.”We didn’t manage to do that in the first half, had another big chance, and then in the second half, we started to struggle as the game went by.”We didn’t generate enough situations in the final third and the game started to get away from us.”ARSENAL PLAYER RATINGS: Saliba will be having nightmares about Isak as Lewis-Skelly is only Gunners star to show upARSENAL were humbled by Newcastle at St James’ Park as the Magpies beat them 2-0 to secure a spot in the League Cup final.The North Londoners knew they needed to take an early advantage if they were to overturn the 2-0 defeat at the Emirates.But Jacob Murphy was on hand to put the Magpies a goal ahead after Alexander Isak’s shot rebounded off of the post and out to him.Shortly after the break, Anthony Gordon doubled the lead to all but confirm a second League Cup final in three years for Eddie Howe.Here’s how SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse rated the Gunners.David Raya – 5Stitched Declan Rice right up for the second goal.And that absolutely killed this as a contest for his side.Jurrien Timber – 6Tried to get forward and support the attack early but soon found himself dropping deeper to avoid being caught on the counter.Tough night for the Dutchman up against Gordon in front of the red-hot home crowd.William Saliba – 4Let frustration get the better of him when he got himself booked for grabbing Anthony Gordon’s shirt.And the winger almost embarrassed him again at the start of the second period when he caught the defender sleeping, nicked the ball from him, but could only shoot wide.The usually assured star will be having nightmares of Gordon and Isak.Gabriel Magalhaes – 6Another who struggled to contain Toon’s two pacey attacking threats but did fair slightly better than his usually formidable partner.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Another assured performance from the full-back in a raucous atmosphere.Could not be faulted for any of the goals and showed flashes off his potential despite the humbling.Martin Odegaard – 6Everything Arsenal did try came through the skipper.Although he loses a mark as things could have been a very different story if he had finished his first half effort had hit the inside rather than outside of the post.Thomas Partey – 6Plenty of running about but very little to show or product for his efforts.Declan Rice – 6Looked to take a knock late in the first half and continued to struggle on after the restart.Was hung out to dry by his goalie for the second goal and he did keep pushing until the very end.But it was a disappointing night for the England star and his partner Partey as they came up short against Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.Gabriel Martinelli – 5Struggled to get past big Dan Burn during his brief time on the pitch.And his night was brought to an abrupt end when he limped off before the break.Kai Havertz – 4Outmuscled, outbattled and outthought but Svan Botman and Fabian Schar.Produced zilch on an evening when he and his team-mates lacked creativity and ideas.Leandro Trossard – 5Many will have been fancying him to cause some problems for the 34-year-old Kieran Trippier but the veteran had him in his pocket all night.Arteta had seen enough by the hour mark and opted to let Raheem Sterling have a go instead.Subs usedEthan Nwaneri (37 mins for Martinelli) – 6Desperately tried to inject some pace and threat into the faltering Arsenal attack but the task proved too much for the young Gunn.He should have plenty more big occasions to look forward to though in his career.Mikel Merino (70 mins for Odegaard) – 5The game was already done and dusted when he entered the fray for battle.Some nice touches, but like those before him, he couldn’t produce anything for the visitors.Raheem Sterling (61 mins for Trossard) – 4Got half an hour to try and get at Trippier but, just like Trossard before him, he was not given an ounce of joy.Riccardo Calafiori (78 mins for Timber) – 4Was brought on simply to get some minutes in his legs.Jorginho (78 mins for Partey) – 4See above. Little chance to make an impact with the game well and truly over. More

  • in

    Anthony Gordon says the two words no Arsenal fan wants to hear in accidental dig after Newcastle thrashing

    ANTHONY GORDON said the two words Arsenal fans didn’t want to hear following Newcastle’s 4-0 aggregate win over the Gunners in the Carabao Cup semi-final.Gordon scored in both legs as the Magpies got the better of Arsenal 2-0 on both occasions to book their spot at Wembley next month.Anthony Gordon threw an accidental jibe at Arsenal following Newcastle’s 2-0 win in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday nightCredit: RexGordon scored in both legs as Newcastle booked their spot in the final at WembleyCredit: GettyThe England winger tormented the Arsenal defence whenever he got the ball over the two legs and seemed to accidentally torment the Arsenal fans with his post-match interview on Wednesday night too.In a bid to keep his teammates grounded and focused on the next game after such a high, Gordon told Sky Sports that Newcastle must “stay humble”.He said: ” It feels amazing. A proper team performance and we got the win. Our fans are never in question, they make it so difficult for the opposition and we did it the right way.”We had a game plan we thought would work. Everyone knows we press. It is important for us to stay humble now. It will be a big occasion but it’s so far away.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe seemingly innocuous answer could have got under the skin of Arsenal supporters up and down the country after the Gunners’ high profile row with Man City’s Erling Haaland this season.Haaland sparked a feud between himself and the Arsenal faithful after telling Mikel Arteta to “stay humble” following City’s late equaliser in the 2-2 draw between the two sides earlier in the season.While Arsenal got their revenge on the pitch on Sunday when they thrashed City 5-1 at the Emirates Stadium.The Gunners didn’t hold back their feelings during the win as 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly even taunted Haaland by recreating the Norwegian’s famous mediation celebration when he put Arsenal 3-1 up.Most read in FootballMyles Lewis-Skelly recreated Erling Haaland’s celebration during Arsenal’s 5-1 dismantling of Man City on SundayCredit: GettyHaaland was taunted by the Arsenal fans throughout the matchCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe crowd also played their part as they could be heard singing “stay humble, Haaland. Stay humble” throughout the 90-minute dismantling.And even the club’s DJ got in on the act, playing Kendrick Lamar’s song ‘HUMBLE.’ over the tannoy system on the final whistle.How Arsenal spent ENTIRE Man City clash winding up Erling Haaland – from brutal celebrations to grabbing shortsSo it’s no surprise that fans have latched on the the words of Anthony Gordon after last night’s Newcastle win and pointed out that perhaps Arsenal should have stayed a little more grounded themselves at the weekend.On social media, one fan wrote: “Anthony Gordon knows exactly what he’s doing here… #StayHumble”.While another added: “Life hits you fast in football nowadays.”A third commented: “Cheeky swipe there by Gordon”.And a fourth posted: “Anthony Gordon, I am a fan of yours for life now.”Newcastle have now beaten Arsenal three times this season with the Gunners yet to find the back of the net against Eddie Howe’s side.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Toon Army will return to Wembley next month for the Carabao Cup final after falling at the final hurdle under the arch in 2023 against Manchester United.But Howe’s fighting Magpies will have a tough task waiting for them at the Home of Football as they will face the winner of tonight’s semi-final second leg clash between Liverpool and Tottenham.ARSENAL PLAYER RATINGS: Saliba will be having nightmares about Isak as Lewis-Skelly is only Gunners star to show upARSENAL were humbled by Newcastle at St James’ Park as the Magpies beat them 2-0 to secure a spot in the League Cup final.The North Londoners knew they needed to take an early advantage if they were to overturn the 2-0 defeat at the Emirates.But Jacob Murphy was on hand to put the Magpies a goal ahead after Alexander Isak’s shot rebounded off of the post and out to him.Shortly after the break, Anthony Gordon doubled the lead to all but confirm a second League Cup final in three years for Eddie Howe.Here’s how SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse rated the Gunners.David Raya – 5Stitched Declan Rice right up for the second goal.And that absolutely killed this as a contest for his side.Jurrien Timber – 6Tried to get forward and support the attack early but soon found himself dropping deeper to avoid being caught on the counter.Tough night for the Dutchman up against Gordon in front of the red-hot home crowd.William Saliba – 4Let frustration get the better of him when he got himself booked for grabbing Anthony Gordon’s shirt.And the winger almost embarrassed him again at the start of the second period when he caught the defender sleeping, nicked the ball from him, but could only shoot wide.The usually assured star will be having nightmares of Gordon and Isak.Gabriel Magalhaes – 6Another who struggled to contain Toon’s two pacey attacking threats but did fair slightly better than his usually formidable partner.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Another assured performance from the full-back in a raucous atmosphere.Could not be faulted for any of the goals and showed flashes off his potential despite the humbling.Martin Odegaard – 6Everything Arsenal did try came through the skipper.Although he loses a mark as things could have been a very different story if he had finished his first half effort had hit the inside rather than outside of the post.Thomas Partey – 6Plenty of running about but very little to show or product for his efforts.Declan Rice – 6Looked to take a knock late in the first half and continued to struggle on after the restart.Was hung out to dry by his goalie for the second goal and he did keep pushing until the very end.But it was a disappointing night for the England star and his partner Partey as they came up short against Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.Gabriel Martinelli – 5Struggled to get past big Dan Burn during his brief time on the pitch.And his night was brought to an abrupt end when he limped off before the break.Kai Havertz – 4Outmuscled, outbattled and outthought but Svan Botman and Fabian Schar.Produced zilch on an evening when he and his team-mates lacked creativity and ideas.Leandro Trossard – 5Many will have been fancying him to cause some problems for the 34-year-old Kieran Trippier but the veteran had him in his pocket all night.Arteta had seen enough by the hour mark and opted to let Raheem Sterling have a go instead.Subs usedEthan Nwaneri (37 mins for Martinelli) – 6Desperately tried to inject some pace and threat into the faltering Arsenal attack but the task proved too much for the young Gunn.He should have plenty more big occasions to look forward to though in his career.Mikel Merino (70 mins for Odegaard) – 5The game was already done and dusted when he entered the fray for battle.Some nice touches, but like those before him, he couldn’t produce anything for the visitors.Raheem Sterling (61 mins for Trossard) – 4Got half an hour to try and get at Trippier but, just like Trossard before him, he was not given an ounce of joy.Riccardo Calafiori (78 mins for Timber) – 4Was brought on simply to get some minutes in his legs.Jorginho (78 mins for Partey) – 4See above. Little chance to make an impact with the game well and truly over. More

  • in

    Cheeky Newcastle fans taunt Mikel Arteta with five-word chant… and club join in with trolling social post

    NEWCASTLE fans brutally mocked Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta during Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final at St James’ Park.And the club joined in the trolling with a cheeky social post.Mikel Arteta was brutally mocked by Newcastle fansCredit: ReutersThe Magpies cruised to a 2-0 victory in the second-leg, taking the score up to 4-0 on aggregate.Arsenal had 34 shots across both games and failed to convert any of them.After the first leg, Arteta appeared to blame the Carabao Cup BALL for the amount of missed chances.He said: “We also kicked a lot of balls over the bar, and it’s tricky that these balls fly a lot so there’s details that we can do better.Read More on Arsenal”But at the end that’s gone, there’s no way back it’s about the next game and that’s our world, the reality is our world.”It’s just different. Very different to a Premier League ball, and you have to adapt to that because it flies different.”When you touch it the grip is very different as well so you adapt to that.”With the Gunners once again struggling to convert anything at St James’ Park, Newcastle fans took the opportunity to mock Arteta for his comments.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSARSENAL PLAYER RATINGS: Saliba will be having nightmares about Isak as Lewis-Skelly is only Gunners star to show upARSENAL were humbled by Newcastle at St James’ Park as the Magpies beat them 2-0 to secure a spot in the League Cup final.The North Londoners knew they needed to take an early advantage if they were to overturn the 2-0 defeat at the Emirates.But Jacob Murphy was on hand to put the Magpies a goal ahead after Alexander Isak’s shot rebounded off of the post and out to him.Shortly after the break, Anthony Gordon doubled the lead to all but confirm a second League Cup final in three years for Eddie Howe.Here’s how SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse rated the Gunners.David Raya – 5Stitched Declan Rice right up for the second goal.And that absolutely killed this as a contest for his side.Jurrien Timber – 6Tried to get forward and support the attack early but soon found himself dropping deeper to avoid being caught on the counter.Tough night for the Dutchman up against Gordon in front of the red-hot home crowd.William Saliba – 4Let frustration get the better of him when he got himself booked for grabbing Anthony Gordon’s shirt.And the winger almost embarrassed him again at the start of the second period when he caught the defender sleeping, nicked the ball from him, but could only shoot wide.The usually assured star will be having nightmares of Gordon and Isak.Gabriel Magalhaes – 6Another who struggled to contain Toon’s two pacey attacking threats but did fair slightly better than his usually formidable partner.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Another assured performance from the full-back in a raucous atmosphere.Could not be faulted for any of the goals and showed flashes off his potential despite the humbling.Martin Odegaard – 6Everything Arsenal did try came through the skipper.Although he loses a mark as things could have been a very different story if he had finished his first half effort had hit the inside rather than outside of the post.Thomas Partey – 6Plenty of running about but very little to show or product for his efforts.Declan Rice – 6Looked to take a knock late in the first half and continued to struggle on after the restart.Was hung out to dry by his goalie for the second goal and he did keep pushing until the very end.But it was a disappointing night for the England star and his partner Partey as they came up short against Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.Gabriel Martinelli – 5Struggled to get past big Dan Burn during his brief time on the pitch.And his night was brought to an abrupt end when he limped off before the break.Kai Havertz – 4Outmuscled, outbattled and outthought but Svan Botman and Fabian Schar.Produced zilch on an evening when he and his team-mates lacked creativity and ideas.Leandro Trossard – 5Many will have been fancying him to cause some problems for the 34-year-old Kieran Trippier but the veteran had him in his pocket all night.Arteta had seen enough by the hour mark and opted to let Raheem Sterling have a go instead.Subs usedEthan Nwaneri (37 mins for Martinelli) – 6Desperately tried to inject some pace and threat into the faltering Arsenal attack but the task proved too much for the young Gunn.He should have plenty more big occasions to look forward to though in his career.Mikel Merino (70 mins for Odegaard) – 5The game was already done and dusted when he entered the fray for battle.Some nice touches, but like those before him, he couldn’t produce anything for the visitors.Raheem Sterling (61 mins for Trossard) – 4Got half an hour to try and get at Trippier but, just like Trossard before him, he was not given an ounce of joy.Riccardo Calafiori (78 mins for Timber) – 4Was brought on simply to get some minutes in his legs.Jorginho (78 mins for Partey) – 4See above. Little chance to make an impact with the game well and truly over.During the second half, they started to chant: “It must be the ball, it must be the ball, Mikel Arteta, it must be the ball.”Newcastle’s X account also jumped on the bandwagon with a post of the Carabao Cup matchball and a caption that read: “The culprit…”Arsenal vs NewcastleJacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon both scored to secure the win for the Magpies.They will now face either Tottenham or Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final next month.Newcastle also got involved in the mockingCredit: x / @nufcUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

  • in

    Newcastle 2 Arsenal 0 (agg: 4-0): Toon tear shambolic Gunners to shreds to move step closer to first trophy in 70 years

    THERE were plenty of old-aged pensioners among this raucous St James’ Park crowd who have never seen Newcastle United win a major domestic trophy.But on March 16, Eddie Howe’s men have a chance to secure the kind of glory the Geordies have been waiting 70 years to experience.Newcastle booked their place in the Carabao Cup final with a 2-0 win over ArsenalCredit: GettyThe 4-0 aggregate victory means Toon are near to ending their 70-year trophy droughtCredit: EPAArsenal arrived on Tyneside with the strut of a team who had just trounced the Premier League champions – but they were blown away by the energy levels of Newcastle’s players and the decibel levels of their supporters.Next month, the Toon will face either Tottenham or Liverpool in the Carabao Cup Final – the club’s sixth Wembley showpiece since Jackie Milburn & Co won the FA Cup way back in 1955.Goals from Jacob Murphy and the electric Anthony Gordon ensured there would be no miracle comeback from Mikel Arteta’s side, who trailed 2-0 from the first leg a month ago.No English club of Newcastle’s size has waited so long to win silverware – especially as Uefa now say that their 1969 Fairs Cup win doesn’t count as a major trophy in their record books.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd while the club’s Geordie Arabia revolution has been stifled by Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules, a trophy would mean the world to the Toon Army.Newcastle reached the League Cup Final two seasons ago but they froze on their big day out and were beaten 2-0 by Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United.Seven of last night’s starting line-up featured in that 2023 final and they will return determined not to suffer stage fright again.For Mikel Arteta, it was a miserable night which leaves the Gunners facing an uphill battle to avoid a fifth successive season without a trophy.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe Gunners boss was mocked with chants of ‘Mikel Arteta, it must be the ball’ after his rather fanciful excuse for the 2-0 home defeat in last month’s first leg.Arsenal failed to carry forward any momentum from Sunday’s 5-1 sploshing of Manchester City.Newcastle stars Sandro Tonali and Sven Botman filmed using mobile phones behind wheels of supercarsPerhaps they expended too much energy in rubbing Erling Haaland’s nose in the Emirates dirt because this was a very flat performance – save for Martin Odegaard hitting the post after an early effort from Newcastle’s Alexander Isak had been disallowed. While Arteta stuck with Sunday’s victorious line-up, Howe switched to a back five – not that his side were ever content to sit back and protect the 2-0 first-leg lead they had secured back in the mists of time.Since then, Newcastle had suffered back-to-back home defeats, giving Arsenal renewed hope of becoming the first team ever to overturn a two-goal deficit away from home in a League Cup semi-final.The Arsenal mood music had improved considerably during the month-long wait for this return leg and they arrived on a four-game winning streak in all competitions.Alexander Isak gave Newcastle an immediate leadCredit: APHe was judged to be narrowly offside by VARBut none of that optimism from the visitors lasted long.It was one of those nights at St James’ Park when the flags were out, the locals were giddy and the amplifier was cranked up to 11.And within four minutes, the Toon thought they had increased their aggregate lead.Gordon picked a delicious through-ball to send Isak pelting through on goal and the Swede lashed his effort into the far corner of David Raya’s net.Jacob Murphy gave Newcastle the lead in the 19th minuteCredit: GettyThe goal sent the home fans into major celebrationsCredit: GettyBut then the dreaded, and lengthy, VAR delay which found that Isak had been narrowly offside.In these semi-finals, they are trialling a system whereby the referees announce any VAR overturns through a microphone to the crowd.And from what I could gather, Simon Hooper told the 52,000 punters: “Bwh dada hagy terg dikit number 14, badadadag.”Joelinton had missed out with a knee injury but despite a Newcastle shape that looked defensive on paper, Howe’s side were not backwards in coming forwards.Anthony Gordon doubled Toon’s lead on the nightCredit: EPAHe waved a scarf as St James’ Park went madCredit: GettyStill, Arsenal settled, knitted together a couple of decent passing moves and Martin Odegaard drilled a shot against the post when he ought to have scored.Yet almost immediately, Newcastle broke.Isak played a one-two with Gordon, descended on goal again and hammered the top of the far post before Murphy lapped up the rebound to spark rapture across the Geordie nation.The place was rocking now and you could tell the hosts were confident when Bruno Guimaraes started performing keepy-uppies on the edge of the Arsenal box.Martin Odegaard missed a sitter than could have changed the course of the gameCredit: PAGabriel Martinelli went off with an injuryCredit: GettyGabriel Martinelli suffered a hamstring injury and was replaced by the boy wonder Ethan Nwaneri.But there was precious little sign of an Arsenal comeback and as their frustrations grew, Kai Havertz was cautioned for a shove on Kieran Trippier, then Wiliam Saliba joined him in the book for dragging back Gordon. Flash Gordon then toasted Declan Rice, who appeared to pull a muscle as he fell, before he fired narrowly wide.Straight after the restart, Saliba was robbed by Gordon who narrowly failed to score from range with Raya stranded.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut soon, it was all done and dusted, with Rice – apparently still troubled by his first-half injury – mugged by a high-pressing Fabian Schar, allowing Gordon an easy finish. And so the Geordie hordes will descend on Wembley, determined to end seven decades of hurt.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More

  • in

    Newcastle vs Arsenal LIVE RESULT: Toon into Carabao Cup final after superb win as Arsenal CRASH OUT after Odegaard miss

    NEWCASTLE UNITED are into the final of the Carabao Cup after a 4-0 aggregate win over Arsenal!The Toon beat Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates last week but had their heart in their mouths when Martin Odegaard hit the post with an early chance.Almost immediately, Newcastle went down the other end and scored – Jacob Murphy firing in after Alexander Isak’s shot cannoned off the post, before Newcastle sealed the game after a horror David Raya pass, with Declan Rice having his pocket picked and Anthony Gordon firing home.It went from bad to worse for Mikel Arteta as Gabriel Martinelli limped off injured in the first half.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…That’s all from St James’ ParkAnd it’s the end of the road in the League Cup for Arsenal.But Newcastle go marching on – and soon they will be doing so down Wembley Way as they edge closer to a first trophy since 1969.Will it be Tottenham or Liverpool that they face in the final? Join us at the same time tomorrow to find out.Goodnight.Copy linkCopiedHowe hopes for improved Wembley showingEddie Howe had led Newcastle to Wembley for the second time in three years – and this time he’s determined to go one step further.The Magpies were brushed aside by Manchester in the 2023 League Cup final, but Howe believes his side are stronger for the experience.And coupled with their time in the Champions League, the Newcastle boss feels that his squad can now manage the big occasions.We have come a long way since [the 2023 final v Manchester United]. The Champions League does that to you, it is so testing and unique. Naturally for the big games a lot of the players have been there before, and we are used to the quick turnarounds and work smarter. There is a good feeling about the squad. We are tight on numbers but big on energy. I would love to think we can go to Wembley and perform better than we did previously.Eddie HoweBBC Radio 5Copy linkCopiedArteta rues missed opportunityArsenal boss Mikel Arteta blamed his side’s inability to take advantage of momentum as the reason they were unable to overturn a first leg deficit.The Gunners grew strong in the first half with the game at 0-0, but secods after Martin Odegaard had hit the post, Newcastle struck to increase their aggregate lead.Arteta admitted that the result and semi-final exit had left them hurting, but they will pick themselves up again for the challenges ahead.We had momentum in the first half and didn’t capitalise. They scored immediately after and the momentum shifts. We needed a goal early in the second half and we didn’t get that and the opportunity passes. They have been more efficient than us in the boxes and that is the difference in the tie. Today is painful and tomorrow a different day.Mikel ArtetaSky SportsCopy linkCopiedWhat next for Arsenal?Out of both domestic cups and facing a mini injury crisis, Arsenal’s season could be on the brink of collapse.But the optimists among the Emirates faithful will surely see a clear run at the Premier League as an opportunity to close the gap on Liverpool.The Gunners only have league fixtures to contend with before European football returns next month while the leaders are fighting on multiple fronts.Copy linkCopiedMikel Arteta, it must be the ball!Mikel Arteta suggested that the official Carabao Cup football was to blame for his side missing so many chances in the first leg of this semi-final tie.Well, tonight, the Newcastle fans and the club’s social media admin hit back.Credit: @NUFC on XCopy linkCopiedIsak impresses on memorable nightAlexander Isak may not have scored this evening, but he put in a tremendous performance that ran Gabriel and William Saliba ragged.The Newcastle strikes dragged the two Arsenal defenders all over the pitch with his strength, speed and movement, highlighted by his second leg heat map.Copy linkCopiedCaptain Bruno dreaming of trophyBruno Guimaraes admits he is dreaming of being the captain to finally end Newcastle’s trophy drought and collect some silverware.The Brazilian put in another tremendous display in the middle of the park, and then paid tribute to his teammates and supporters for their efforts.And if the Magpies can replicate that performance at Wembley next month then Guimaraes sees no reason why the club won’t be celebrating a historic triumph.It was an unbelievable performance from everyone and we must thank the fans as well. We go to another final for the club and hopeful we can win this one. If we play like that then we can dream big. It would be amazing to get a trophy, it is my dream to do this and especially in my first season as captain.Bruno GuimaraesSky SportsCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from St James’ ParkFor the second time in three years, Arsenal failed to score in both legs of a two-legged League Cup semi-final.Copy linkCopiedGordon: It’s important to stay humbleIt’s the phrase on everybody’s lips right now.Speaking straight after the final whistle at St James’ Park, Newcastle goalscorer Anthony Gordon urged his teammates to ‘stay humble’ in their pursuit of a first trophy since 1969.It’s important for us to stay humble now. We went on a really good run and then we had two results that we didn’t see coming and we didn’t need in our season. This was a good game to put us back on track, but I think we need to keep our heads down and focus on what’s in front of us.Anthony GordonSky SportsCopy linkCopiedFull time – Newcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)The flags are flying high again and Newcastle are heading back to the home of football.A semi-final tie as emphatic as they come, Newcastle built on their 2-0 smash and grab from the first leg to boss the second.Four goals without reply against one of the best in the Premier League has the Toon Army one step closer to their first trophy since 1969.But there’s still a job to do – and that will come against either Liverpool or Tottenham at Wembley on March 16th.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)90+3. One final Arsenal corner is confidently claimed by Martin Dubravka.Newcastle are on their way to Wembley…Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)90. Four minutes stoppage time.Four minutes for Newcastle players and fans to savour.Four minutes before the Arsenal contingent are put out of their misery.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)88. Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole!Five passes is probably Newcastle’s best spell of possession tonight too, but who needs the ball when you’re electric on the counter?Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)86. Declan Rice lunges horribly at Bruno Guimaraes.In other circumstances, you’d worry that the midfielder on the receiving end would stay down – but tonight, Guimaraes leaps to his feet and begins geeing up the crowd.Safe to says it’s party night in Newcastle this evening.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)84. “We’re firmly into ‘ole’ territory…” exclaims commentator Seb Hutchinson as Guimaraes sends a no-look pass around the corner for Isak.When you haven’t won a trophy since 1969, fans are going to enjoy every moment of nights like these.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)82. There are some half-hearted cries for an Arsenal penalty as Havertz goes down, but Schar was just too strong for him.Clutching at straws.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)80. Jacob Murphy takes the applause of St James’ Park as he is subbed off.The opening goalscorer tonight takes his leave and is replaced by a former Arsenal man in Joe Willock.Also off is Sven Botman, replaced by Emil Krafth.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)78. Declan Rice curls an Arsenal corner over and out of play.That sums up the Gunners over these two semi-finals. Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)76. A sparkling run from Gordon takes him beyond four Arsenal players in midfield.Unfortunately for the winger, the fifth he faces is William Saliba. For the first time tonight, the Frenchman comes out on top.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)74. Martin Dubravka goes down for a spot of treatment. Or should I say “treatment”?There’s really no need to time waste, mind. There could be another three legs to this tie and Arsenal wouldn’t fight back.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)72. St James’ Park is in full voice.They didn’t do themselves justice when they made the League Cup final against Manchester United two years ago. You feel it may be different this time around.It will be either Liverpool or Tottenham that they face at Wembley.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)70. What incredibly work rate from Gordon, who like Trippier on the other flank, keeps pace with his opponent – in this case, Nwaneri – all the way back to the byline.And the Newcastle man goes one better, even winning a goalkick with a last-ditch touch on to the Arsenal midfielder.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)67. Newcastle have only conceded once from a corner this season, and it shows as they confidently deal with the latest Arsenal set-piece.You know things aren’t running smoothly for the Gunners when even their dead ball routines are coming up short.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)65. Sterling and Lewis-Skelly combine neatly on the left, but the wise old head of Trippier isn’t having it.He tracks the young left-back all the way to the byline and then blocks behind for a corner.Copy linkCopiedNewcastle 2-0 Arsenal (Agg: 4-0)63. It’s fair to say the intensity has dropped out of this one.Both teams know the tie is done, and the final half hour or so will be a formality.Copy linkCopied More