Isak Scores As Newcastle See Off Manchester City

Alexander Isak scored the winner as a largely second-string Newcastle came to life after the break to beat a much-changed Manchester City and reach the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

Newcastle, who lost to Manchester United in last year’s final, made 10 changes from Sunday’s 8-0 win at Sheffield United and barely got a kick in a first half dominated by the visitors.

But with Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon sent on at the break, the Magpies were transformed, with Isak slotting home following fine work from Joelinton.

Disciplined but passive in the face of City’s possessional dominance, Eddie Howe’s men were fortunate to still be level after 45 minutes, with Julian Alvarez missing two decent chances.

Pep Guardiola opted for seven changes of his own, giving a first start to young midfielder Oscar Bobb among them, but the familiar patient probing was evident.

But the home side deserved their victory thanks to their second-half display, which was full of energy and endeavour and played largely in the face of a City side who could not react.

For Pep Guardiola’s side, it was just a second loss inside 90 minutes in their last 38 games in all competitions. 

Newcastle are now unbeaten in four games after a run of three straight losses, with their reward for Wednesday’s win a fourth-round shot at revenge against the side that beat them in last year’s final.