Alan Shearer’s instant reaction as Newcastle United beat Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final 1st leg

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer expressed his admiration for the Magpies following their remarkable 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. Eddie Howe’s team delivered a flawless away performance at the Emirates Stadium, putting themselves in a commanding position to reach the final.

With this result, Newcastle extended their winning streak to seven games, driven by the contributions of Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon, who were once again instrumental, just as they had been in their recent triumph over Tottenham Hotspur.

This victory held special significance as Newcastle’s record without Bruno Guimarães has been far from stellar. The influential midfielder was absent due to suspension, making this the first game the team has won without him since his arrival at St. James’ Park.

The timing of this breakthrough couldn’t have been more perfect, showcasing the team’s resilience and adaptability in a high-pressure scenario.

Newcastle excelled in every aspect of the game, delivering a performance that epitomized both offensive flair and defensive solidity. Alexander Isak showcased his brilliance, further underlining why Arsenal fans have admired him from afar.

Meanwhile, Newcastle’s defensive effort was a masterclass in resilience and determination. Dan Burn and Sven Botman stood out with their commanding displays, ensuring the team maintained a crucial clean sheet and secured a two-goal advantage heading into the second leg.

Alan Shearer, never one to shy away from praising his beloved Newcastle, took to social media after the match to commend the team’s extraordinary effort. He described the performance as “outstanding” from start to finish, emphasizing the collective excellence of the squad.

Such praise from the Premier League’s all-time leading scorer highlights the magnitude of this achievement for the Magpies.

While Newcastle has taken a significant step towards the Carabao Cup final, the job is far from complete. The second leg awaits at St. James’ Park, where the team will look to capitalize on their advantage.

Scheduled for February 5, just days after a Premier League clash against Fulham, the upcoming fixture will test the depth and endurance of Eddie Howe’s squad.

With five matches to navigate before the decisive semi-final encounter, including an FA Cup third-round tie against Bromley, Newcastle’s focus will remain on maintaining momentum and avoiding complacency.

If Newcastle successfully advances to the Carabao Cup final, they will face either Liverpool or Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley on March 16. A potential final appearance would mark a significant milestone in the club’s resurgence under Eddie Howe and reaffirm their status as genuine contenders in English football.

This victory against Arsenal not only underscores the progress Newcastle has made but also serves as a statement of intent. The team’s ability to perform at such a high level without key players speaks volumes about their depth, tactical discipline, and collective spirit.

For Newcastle fans, the dream of lifting silverware feels closer than ever, as the Magpies continue to soar under Howe’s guidance.