Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called on his players to improve their decision-making following a 2-0 loss to Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.
The match saw goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon secure a comfortable lead for Newcastle ahead of the second leg in February. Arsenal missed key chances, with Kai Havertz squandering a close-range header.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Arteta said:
“The biggest difference was being clinical. In every other aspect, we were the better team. We generated a lot of chances, but they defended their box very well. In a semi-final, you have to be clinical.”
Arteta also expressed disappointment over the result but remained optimistic about the second leg:
“We have to be disappointed, but I have full belief in my team. We’ve shown we can compete against them, and I believe we can turn it around.”
The second leg will be a crucial test for Arsenal as they aim to overturn the deficit and secure a spot in the Carabao Cup final.
