Newcastle United are through to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals after a dominant 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur at a rocking St James’ Park — but the night wasn’t without drama.
Goals from Fabian Schar and Nick Woltemade sealed the victory for Eddie Howe’s side, who looked sharp, composed, and completely in control from the opening whistle. Schar opened the scoring with a powerful header from a Sandro Tonali corner, rising highest to bury the ball past Antonin Kinsky. Then, just after halftime, Woltemade doubled the lead — another header, another delivery Spurs couldn’t deal with — and that was that. Game over.
But of course, it wouldn’t be a cup night without controversy! Tottenham boss Thomas Frank was left fuming after the first goal, claiming referee Chris Kavanagh made a huge error in allowing the corner to be taken while Djed Spence was still fixing his boot. Yes, really — Spence was literally tying his laces when Tonali whipped the corner in, and it was his man, Schar, who scored.
After the match, Frank didn’t hold back:
“We conceded two goals because of two mistakes. Unfortunately, the referee was part of the mistake for the first goal. His boot was off — you can clearly see it. It’s just common sense to let him get his boot back on before restarting. To make matters worse, it was his man who scored.”
Frank and his coaching staff were seen protesting furiously on the touchline, with captain Pedro Porro leading the complaints on the pitch. The Spurs bench were furious, feeling completely let down by the officials at a crucial moment in the match.
And it’s not just Frank who thought Kavanagh got it wrong. Former referee chief Keith Hackett also criticised the decision, saying:
“This really is poor officiating from Kavanagh. He allowed the stoppage for Spence to tie his lace, but should have waited for him to get back in position before restarting play. A total lapse in concentration.”
Despite the controversy, Newcastle deserved their win. They were aggressive, organised, and clinical — everything Spurs weren’t. Tonali pulled the strings in midfield, Schar led by example at the back, and Woltemade continues to show why fans are so excited about his future.
For Spurs, it’s another frustrating cup exit and more questions for Frank to answer about focus, defending, and mentality in big games. For Newcastle, it’s another statement win — and one that sends them flying into the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with confidence sky-high.
Final score: Newcastle United 2–0 Tottenham Hotspur
⚽ Schar (Tonali assist)
⚽ Woltemade (header)
Another big night under the lights at St James’ Park — and maybe, just maybe, the start of another deep cup run for Eddie Howe’s men. 💪
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