Newcastle Ease Past Bradford as Premier League Clubs Progress in League Cup

Defending champions Newcastle United advanced to the League Cup fourth round on Wednesday night with a comfortable 4-1 win over League One side Bradford City, thanks to braces from Joelinton and William Osula.

Newcastle, who ended a 70-year wait for domestic silverware by lifting the trophy last season, quickly stamped their authority on the tie. Joelinton broke the deadlock in the 17th minute, slotting home after controlling Anthony Gordon’s shot. Just two minutes later, Osula doubled the lead with a composed finish, putting Eddie Howe’s side firmly in control.

The visitors threatened little, and Newcastle waited until the 75th minute to extend their advantage. Joelinton calmly tucked away his second to make it 3-0 before boyhood Newcastle fan Andy Cook pulled one back for Bradford with a powerful strike. Any hopes of a late comeback were extinguished, however, as Osula completed his brace to seal the holders’ progress.

Elsewhere, other Premier League sides also faced third-tier opposition. Manchester City saw off Huddersfield Town 2-0, with Phil Foden once again central to their success. The England midfielder struck early after linking up neatly with teenager Divine Mukasa, before turning provider for Savinho’s clinching goal midway through the second half.

At Port Vale, Arsenal secured a 2-0 win with summer signing Eberechi Eze opening his account for the club. The £60 million arrival from Crystal Palace scored in the eighth minute after combining with Gabriel Martinelli, who had benefited from Eze’s assist in Sunday’s Premier League draw with City. Arsenal labored for much of the contest but added a late second through Leandro Trossard.

Tottenham Hotspur continued their promising start under new manager Thomas Frank with a dominant 3-0 win against Doncaster Rovers. Joao Palhinha opened the scoring with an acrobatic overhead kick, before an own goal from Jay McGrath doubled the advantage. Brennan Johnson rounded off the victory with a stoppage-time strike.

The fourth-round draw produced several intriguing ties. Newcastle will host Tottenham in what promises to be the round’s standout clash, while Manchester City face a trip to Swansea City. Arsenal will welcome Brighton to the Emirates, and Liverpool will play Crystal Palace at Anfield. Chelsea were handed an away tie at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

History was also made in the draw, with three Welsh clubs reaching the last 16 for the first time. In a notable fixture, Hollywood-backed Wrexham will host Championship side Cardiff City, ensuring at least one Welsh club progresses to the quarterfinals.

With the big clubs avoiding major upsets and the holders showing early signs of intent, the competition looks set for a compelling fourth round.