Arsenal, Newcastle & Liverpool reach EFL Cup quarter-finals

Arsenal showcased resilience and class as they staged a thrilling comeback to defeat Crystal Palace 3-2 in the EFL Cup quarter-finals at the Emirates Stadium. The night belonged to Gabriel Jesus, whose second-half hat-trick turned the game on its head and sent Mikel Arteta's side into the semi-finals.

The Gunners trailed 1-0 at halftime after Jean-Philippe Mateta's early strike, and they looked to be in trouble. Sharp and organized, Crystal Palace capitalized on Arsenal's sluggish start when Mateta finished clinically after a defensive lapse in the eighth minute. The Eagles carried their slim lead into the break, leaving the home crowd restless.

However, Arsenal's fortunes shifted dramatically with the introduction of Martin Ødegaard at halftime. The Norwegian playmaker's impact was immediate and transformative, as his creativity injected life into Arsenal's attack. Ødegaard's influence was evident when he provided a deft assist for Jesus' equalizer in the 51st minute. The Brazilian striker latched onto the perfectly weighted pass and finished precisely to level the score.

Arsenal's momentum snowballed from there. Bukayo Saka, a constant threat on the right flank, delivered a pinpoint cross in the 67th minute that Jesus expertly headed home for his second-night goal. The Emirates erupted as the Gunners turned the tide, showing the attacking flair synonymous with Arteta's tenure.

The hat-trick moment arrived in the 78th minute. Ødegaard, orchestrating from midfield, sliced through Palace's defense with a sublime through ball, releasing Jesus one-on-one with the goalkeeper. The Brazilian remained composed, slotting the ball past the onrushing Sam Johnstone to complete his treble.

The hat-trick was a poignant milestone for Jesus, ending a goal drought at the Emirates that had stretched to 367 days. His celebration was one of relief and triumph as he reminded fans and critics alike of his class and value to the team.

Despite Arsenal's dominance, the game took a nervy turn in the closing stages. Former Gunner Eddie Nketiah, now a key player for Crystal Palace, rose highest to head home in the 89th minute, reducing the deficit to 3-2. Palace pushed hard for an equalizer in stoppage time, but Arsenal's defense held firm to secure the win.

Beyond the ticket to the semi-finals, the victory gives Arsenal a psychological edge as they prepare to face Crystal Palace again in a Premier League encounter on Saturday.

Liverpool Edge Southampton in Hard-Fought Victory

Liverpool joined Arsenal in the EFL Cup semi-finals after a tense 2-1 win over Southampton at Anfield. Under caretaker coach Simon Rusk, the Saints put up a spirited fight despite being manager-less.

The Reds started brightly, with Darwin Núñez breaking the deadlock in the 19th minute. The Uruguayan striker's well-timed run and clinical finish marked his fourth goal of the season, highlighting his growing confidence in front of goal.

Harvey Elliott doubled Liverpool's advantage midway through the first half, scoring his first campaign goal. The young midfielder struck with composure after a clever one-two with Cody Gakpo, giving Liverpool a comfortable lead.

Southampton, however, refused to go down without a fight. Cameron Archer halved the deficit with a stunning strike in the 68th minute, giving the visitors a glimmer of hope. The Saints pushed for an equalizer in the final stages, but Liverpool's defense, marshaled by Virgil van Dijk, held firm.

The win keeps Liverpool in contention for silverware this season and builds momentum as they compete on multiple fronts.

Newcastle Dominates Brentford to Secure Semi-Final Spot

Newcastle United continued their impressive form with a 3-1 victory over Brentford at St. James' Park. Eddie Howe's side, determined to make their mark in the domestic cup competition, put on a clinical display to advance to the last four.

The Magpies took the lead through Sandro Tonali, whose beautifully-struck first-time shot from outside the box in the 22nd minute left the Brentford goalkeeper with no chance. Tonali, showing his versatility and skill, doubled his tally shortly after the break with a composed finish following a defensive error from the visitors.

Fabian Schär added Newcastle's third goal in the 65th minute, heading in from a well-delivered corner. The Swiss defender's commanding presence in both boxes epitomized Newcastle's dominance on the night.

Brentford managed a late consolation goal through Yoane Wissa, who found the back of the net in the 83rd minute. However, it was too late for the Bees, who were outplayed by a determined Newcastle side.

The victory underlines Newcastle's growing stature as a team capable of challenging for major honors. With their place in the semi-finals secured, the Magpies are now just two games away from lifting silverware.

The Road Ahead

The EFL Cup semi-finals promise to be an exciting spectacle, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Newcastle joined by one other contender. Each team brings a unique blend of talent, ambition, and form, setting the stage for thrilling encounters.

Arsenal's resurgence of Gabriel Jesus is a massive boost as they aim to add more trophies under Arteta. Liverpool, with their attacking firepower and defensive solidity, remain formidable opponents. Brimming with confidence and guided by Eddie Howe's tactical acumen, Newcastle is a dark horse in the competition.

As the semi-finals draw closer, fans will eagerly anticipate the matchups and the drama that inevitably accompanies cup football. Whether it's Arsenal's resilience, Liverpool's pedigree, or Newcastle's ambition, the EFL Cup will deliver another unforgettable chapter in English football.

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