Newcastle Ends Carabao Cup Run with Loss to Man City

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From The Football Review

Newcastle's Struggle Continues with a Tough Exit from the Carabao Cup

After breaking their 70-year wait for a domestic trophy by winning the Carabao Cup in 2025, Newcastle United's aspirations for continued success faced a harsh setback. In the semi-finals of the same competition, the team's efforts to defend their title were thwarted by Manchester City in a definitive 3-1 defeat. This loss adds to Newcastle's enduring struggles at the Etihad Stadium, marking their 12th consecutive game without a win in Manchester City's home, a record low for the Magpies against any opponent on the road.

The disappointment was palpable as Newcastle aimed to replicate the previous year's triumphs. Anthony Olanga's goal was the sole consolation in a 5-1 aggregate defeat, ending the Magpies' goal drought at the Etihad since 2018. Despite creating several scoring opportunities throughout both legs of the semi-finals, missed chances ultimately hindered Newcastle's progress.

Newcastle United's manager, Eddie Howe, acknowledged the demanding fixture list that includes travels to top-tier teams like Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester City. Adding to the challenges, forthcoming matches include visits to Tottenham and Aston Villa, with another encounter against Manchester City, among others. Echoing the toll these fixtures have taken, Howe cited injuries and the intense schedule as factors stretching the squad to its limits, particularly during a dense period of matches between late January and March. This strenuous run is set to test Newcastle's resilience across all competitions, as they navigate a defining phase of their season.

With the Carabao Cup defense behind them, Newcastle must regroup and focus on the daunting fixtures ahead, striving to overcome this setback and forge a path towards greater achievements this season.