EFL Cup: Isak on target as Newcastle overcome Chelsea

SourceBBC

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Newcastle United cruised past Chelsea to reach the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.

Alexander Isak opened the scoring from close range in the 23rd minute after Sandro Tonali intercepted a loose pass just outside the penalty area.

The hosts doubled their advantage three minutes later when Joe Willock flicked on Isak’s cross and Chelsea defender Axel Disasi turned the ball into his own net.

Enzo Maresca’s side struggled to cope with Newcastle’s pressing and were fortunate to go into half-time with just a two-goal deficit.

Sean Longstaff thought he had headed in a third midway through the second half but the linesman’s flag ruled it out for offside.

Chelsea enjoyed more of the ball after the break, but were left frustrated when Joao Felix poked wide when one-on-one with Nick Pope.

Substitute Noni Madueke made a decent impact, but boss Maresca, having left out Nicolas Jackson, also opted against introducing key man Cole Palmer from the bench.

Newcastle substitute William Osula came agonisingly close to a third goal, but his low drive struck the foot of the post.

The victory meant Eddie Howe’s side avenged their 2-1 defeat by Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday.

The quarter-final draw will take place later on Wednesday following Tottenham Hotspur’s tie against Manchester City.

Quarter-final ties will take place during the week commencing 16 December.