Newcastle United have scored a goal in the League Cup. The Magpies knocked Manchester City out of the cup with Alexander Isak’s goal
Newcastle United had conceded eight goals to promoted Sheffield United at the weekend, but only Pope remained in the starting eleven against Manchester City – Eddie Howe made a complete rotation. Similarly, Pep Guardiola benched Haaland for 90 minutes.
The fact that both teams were not playing in their best line-up was clear to see. ManCity ran the ball as usual, Newcastle defended deep in their own half. There was rarely any danger in the first half. First, Alvarez had two shots towards Pope (18th, 29th), before Murphy had the lead on his feet. But after a counterattack, the right-winger failed to beat Ortega Moreno (42nd).
Isak finishes effortlessly
Howe sensed something was possible against the Skyblues this evening and brought on two regulars after the break in Guimaraes and Gordon. The Magpies promptly became much more aggressive, even constricting ManCity in the penalty area at times.
Consequently, Newcastle took the lead after 53 minutes, Isak had no trouble after a flat assist by Joelinton and a lapse by Lewis. The Citizens then looked to get a foothold in the game, while the home side continued to press and keep ManCity away from their own goal.
It was not until the final minutes that the visitors really stepped up the tempo, with substitute Doku in particular making an impact. The Belgian also created the best chance to equalise, but Lewis’ low shot from 18 metres just missed the target (90th minute).
There was nothing more for Newcastle to overcome as last season’s finalists cleared the big hurdle of Manchester City. Premier League action continues for both teams on Saturday at 4pm. Newcastle host Burnley, City have to go to Wolverhampton. In the 4th round of the League Cup, the Magpies face City rivals ManUnited.
