Alexander Isak scored his 50th goal for Newcastle United as Eddie Howe’s side took a big step towards the Carabao Cup final with a 2-0 win at Arsenal on Tuesday.

Isak scored just before half-time in the first leg of the semi-final at the chilly Emirates Stadium and then played a big part in Newcastle’s second goal from Anthony Gordon after the break.

Arsenal were left to rue their failure to capitalize on several good chances: Gabriel Martinelli’s first-half save and Kai Havertz missed a golden opportunity.

In-form Newcastle, who have not won a major trophy since 1955, will now be clear favorites for the return leg on Tyneside next month.

Tottenham Hotspur host defending champions Liverpool in the first leg of the other semi-final on Wednesday.

Arsenal were unbeaten in their last 13 games in all competitions but were not at their best against a sober Newcastle side who have taken a liking to north London.

Three days ago they won 2-1 at Tottenham to move closer to the Premier League’s top four, and when they returned they sent the traveling Toon army back north in high spirits.

Isak has been virtually unstoppable of late, scoring ten goals in his last nine games for the club.

The Swede smashed an early half-chance over the bar but showed how lethal he is after 37 minutes when a long ball into the penalty area fell his way and he fired the ball high past David Raya and into the roof of the net.

Arsenal had threatened with Martinelli smashing a shot from the edge of the area against the post and Newcastle were forced into desperate defense in a scramble in front of goal.

Jurriën Timber also headed over the crossbar from close range for the hosts and Havertz was even more guilty after the break when he somehow failed to get a header in front of goal.

At this point, Newcastle were 2-0 ahead thanks to a substitution from Gordon in the 50th minute. Jacob Murphy played a great pass to Isak, whose first shot was only parried by Raya, allowing Gordon to sink the rebound.

Arsenal increased the pressure late on to reduce the deficit but Newcastle manned the barricades and will take a commanding lead back to St James’ Park.