Arsenal are into the final four of the EFL Cup, with the semi-finals drawn and a chance at earning some early silverware in the campaign.
The Gunners have only lifted the trophy twice in their history – once in 1987 and then again in 1993 – with a third firmly in their sights.
Their run so far has consisted of facing largely Championship opposition, beating Bolton and Preston on their way to the quarter-finals.
Then came the biggest challenge yet in another Premier League outfit, though Arsenal managed to beat Crystal Palace to earn a place in the EFL Cup semi-final.
It means that Mikel Arteta is just three games away from lifting another trophy in his managerial career, which will be a huge motivator for success.
The draw for the EFL Cup semi-final has since concluded, so here’s a look at everything you need to know about the upcoming test for Arsenal.
Arsenal face Newcastle in EFL Cup semi-final draw
Arsenal have been drawn against Newcastle in the EFL Cup semi-final, which will see the two Premier League clubs look to book a place in the final of the competition.
The Magpies booked themselves into the final four of the cup by beating Brentford 3-1 in the quarter-finals.
The Gunners have already faced them in the division this season, with a defeat on the road away at St. James’ Park.
Now the two teams look to renew acquaintances again, with a place in the final of the domestic trophy now up for grabs.
How many matches are played in the EFL Cup semi-finals?
There are two legs for each EFL Cup semi-final, with each side having to play home and away in their fixtures.
The draw will determine which team has home advantage first and which has it second, with the aggregate score deciding the winner.
Unlike other rounds of the competition, there will be extra time in the semi-final and final if the scores are level.
When are the EFL Cup semi-final matches?
The semi-final of the EFL Cup will be played across two legs roughly one month apart from the other.
The first leg will take place on the week commencing January 6, 2025, while the second leg will be almost a month later, with the week commencing February 3, 2025.
As Arsenal were drawn first they will be at home first while their away leg comes second. The exact dates will be confirmed in due course.
How to get tickets for Arsenal vs Newcastle in the EFL Cup semi-final
Arsenal are set to confirm ticket information for the home and away legs of the EFL Cup semi-final in the coming days.
That will come via the Arsenal ticket page, with categories and priority windows set to be confirmed in the near future.
We will give you all the latest updates once they become available so check back again soon.
Who could Arsenal face in the EFL Cup final?
Should Arsenal make it past their semi-final opponents, they would be set for a huge clash at Wembley Stadium in the New Year.
The Gunners could face one of Liverpool, or Tottenham in the weeks ahead if they make the EFL Cup final.
When is the EFL Cup final?
The final of the EFL Cup is scheduled for Sunday, March 16, with an opportunity for silverware on the cards.
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