“Most exciting duo” – Sunday Oliseh singles out two standouts in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup win over Arsenal

Former Super Eagles head coach Sunday Oliseh has heaped praise on Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon following their performance against Arsenal, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Gunners hosted Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium, but it was the Magpies who stole the show with an exciting 2-0 victory in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.

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After the match, the former Borussia Dortmund player took to social media to express his disappointment at Arsenal’s loss, while also praising Isak and Gordon for their pivotal roles in securing a commanding lead for Eddie Howe’s side.

“Sad day for Arsenal fans losing out to Newcastle,” Oliseh said. “But I strongly feel these two players, Isak and Gordon of Newcastle, are arguably the most exciting duo and slightly the most underrated players of the Premier League this season. Just love the variety they bring each game, and Isak is currently my favourite player in the Premier League. What a bunch of talent!”

Sad day for arsenal fans losing out to newcastle, But i strongly feel these two players, Isak and Gordon of Newcastle are arguably, the most exciting duo and slightly most underrated players of the premier league this season.
Just love the variety they bring each game and Isak… pic.twitter.com/AXrNU0DaEx

— Sunday Oliseh (@SundayOOliseh) January 7, 2025

The duo delivered on Oliseh’s praise, with Isak opening the scoring in the 37th minute. The Swedish forward capitalised on a loose ball in the box and fired a superb shot past David Raya to extend his scoring streak to seven consecutive matches.

Watch the goal here:

Another game, another goal for Alexander Isak! pic.twitter.com/qATHHHrndX

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) January 7, 2025

The former Everton forward, Gordon, sealed the win early in the second half, reacting quickest to a rebound to slot home Newcastle’s second goal.

Arsenal had opportunities to turn the tide, with Gabriel Martinelli striking the post when the game was goalless and Jorginho coming close with a long-range effort. However, Newcastle’s resolute defence, anchored by Sven Botman, kept the Gunners at bay.

With both teams heading into the second leg at St James’ Park on February 5 with a two-goal cushion, Arsenal now face the daunting task of overturning the deficit to keep their Carabao Cup hopes alive.