Newcastle Crush Spurs to Keep Cup Hopes Alive
Newcastle proved why they are the current Carabao Cup holders with a commanding 2–0 win over Tottenham at St James’ Park. From the first whistle, Eddie Howe’s side played with energy, focus, and the hunger of a team determined to defend their trophy.
Tonali Controls the Midfield
Sandro Tonali once again dominated Newcastle’s midfield, dictating the tempo and pulling Tottenham’s defenders out of shape. Howe tweaked his 4-3-3 formation to overload the flanks, sending full-backs Emil Krafth and Dan Burn forward to create constant danger. Tottenham struggled to react, with their forwards rarely testing goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale effectively.
Schär and Woltemade Deliver
Fabian Schär opened the scoring with a towering header from a Tonali corner, exploiting Tottenham’s zonal marking confusion. The Swiss defender, back in the starting lineup after losing his place to Malick Thiaw, showed his quality and composure.
Just after the break, Nick Woltemade doubled the lead, heading in a Joe Willock cross following a defensive mix-up from Tottenham. The German striker now has six goals this season, and his aerial threat was crucial in putting the game beyond Spurs.
Spurs Struggle to Find Rhythm
Tottenham tried to respond, with Harvey Barnes hitting the crossbar late in the first half and Brennan Johnson slicing a chance wide. Despite their attempts, Spurs lacked sharpness and cohesion, and Newcastle’s disciplined defending left few opportunities. Djed Spence’s momentary lapse while tying his boot highlighted Spurs’ small errors, which Howe’s side exploited ruthlessly.
Controversy and Tensions
The match also saw heated moments. Joelinton’s reckless tackle on Mohammed Kudus sparked a brief altercation, with punches thrown before the situation calmed. Frank admitted afterward, “It was a game of small margins. Really close.” Newcastle fans celebrated every move, already dreaming of another final trip, singing the same anthem that lifted them last season: “Tell me Ma, I won’t be home for tea … we’re going to Wemberlee.”
Newcastle March On
Howe’s team combined tactical discipline, set-piece prowess, and individual brilliance to earn a deserved place in the quarter-finals. Tottenham leaves with plenty to rethink as Newcastle’s winning formula continues to impress.
