Arteta insists wasteful Arsenal were the better team against Newcastle

Mikel Arteta expressed disappointment after Arsenal’s 2-0 EFL Cup semi-final first-leg loss to Newcastle, despite believing his team played better overall.

Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon scored for Newcastle, with Arteta lamenting missed chances by Arsenal, including Gabriel Martinelli hitting the post and Kai Havertz missing a clear header. Arsenal had 23 shots with 3.09 expected goals (xG), compared to Newcastle’s 7 shots and 1.22 xG, but only managed three on target.

Arteta acknowledged the need for more clinical finishing, while crediting Newcastle's defense. Isak’s opener came from a flick-on by Jacob Murphy, and centre-back Dan Burn praised his team’s resolute defending. The second leg on February 5th remains crucial for Arsenal, who remain confident of a comeback.