Arsenal Manager Confident Despite 2-0 Loss

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains optimistic about reaching the Carabao Cup final despite a 2-0 first-leg defeat to Newcastle. He highlighted the team's struggle with the 'tricky' Puma ball used in the competition, which differs significantly from the Nike ball used in the Premier League, affecting their shooting accuracy. Arteta emphasized the need for adaptation to this ball, as Arsenal managed 23 shots with only three on target. Despite missed opportunities, he trusts his team can overcome the deficit in the second leg by focusing on improving minor details. Arteta's confidence is supported by Arsenal's previous high-scoring performances in earlier rounds of the competition. The first-leg defeat marks Newcastle's advantage with goals by Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.