Newcastle United advanced to the Carabao Cup semi-finals thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time winner from teenager Lewis Miley, overcoming Fulham 2-1 at St James’ Park. The result sets up a mouthwatering semi-final clash with Manchester City in a two-legged tie.

---

Miley’s Late Heroics

The 19-year-old midfielder, stepping in at right-back due to a spate of injuries, proved decisive when it mattered most. With the game seemingly heading for penalties, Miley rose to head home from a Sandro Tonali corner in stoppage time, sending Newcastle fans into delirium and securing the holders’ progression.

Miley’s goal highlighted his versatility and composure, having filled in for Kieran Trippier, Lewis Hall, Dan Burn, and Tino Livramento, who was forced off earlier in the match. His decisive contribution also provided a much-needed boost following Newcastle’s disappointing derby defeat to Sunderland on Sunday.

---

Game Summary

Newcastle took the lead through Yoane Wissa, who bundled home from close range after goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte only managed to parry Jacob Murphy’s cross. The goal marked Wissa’s first start since his knee injury and first appearance since completing a £55 million move from Brentford in the summer.

However, Fulham quickly responded as Sasa Lukic powered a header past Aaron Ramsdale, capitalizing on space created by Antonee Robinson’s run. The game remained finely poised until Miley’s stoppage-time intervention.

Other key moments included:

• Lecomte saving Bruno Guimaraes’ swerving effort and Harvey Barnes’ low drive.
• Miley narrowly missing an earlier chance before ultimately delivering the decisive header.

---

Newcastle Analysis: Howe’s Side Bounce Back

Manager Eddie Howe has seen his team consistently respond to adversity, and Wednesday’s victory was another example of Newcastle’s resilience in cup competitions.

Despite an imperfect performance, the Magpies dug deep in stoppage time to secure a crucial win, maintaining their record of big moments in the Carabao Cup under Howe.

Miley’s influence extends beyond the goal, as he provided defensive stability at right-back and showcased his ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.

---

Fulham Analysis: Late Heartbreak

Fulham endured another painful late defeat at St James’ Park. Just weeks after conceding a 90th-minute winner to Bruno Guimaraes in the Premier League, the Cottagers were again undone in the dying moments.

Despite the setback, Fulham displayed resilience:

• They equalized quickly after Newcastle’s opener without three key players: Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, and Samuel Chukwueze, all at the Africa Cup of Nations.
• Manager Marco Silva will rue missed counter-attacking opportunities in the first half, particularly a chance involving Harry Wilson.

---

What’s Next for Both Teams

Newcastle United:

• Premier League: Host Chelsea, Saturday (12:30 GMT)
• Premier League Boxing Day: Travel to Old Trafford vs Manchester United, Friday, 26 December (20:00 GMT)

Fulham:

• Premier League: Host Nottingham Forest, Monday, 22 December (20:00 GMT)
• Premier League: Travel to West Ham, Saturday, 27 December (15:00 GMT)

---

Player of the Match

• Lewis Miley (Newcastle United) – Average rating: 7.83

Other notable performers:

Newcastle United

• Sandro Tonali – 7.24
• Bruno Guimaraes – 7.19
• Jacob Murphy – 7.13
• Aaron Ramsdale – 7.13

Fulham

• Tino Livramento – 6.82
• Fabian Schär – 6.65
• Harvey Barnes – 6.60