Eze scores first Arsenal goal in win against Port Vale, Man City, Tottenham, Newcastle also win

Eberechi Eze marked his first goal for Arsenal as they secured a 2-0 victory against Port Vale in the English League Cup on Wednesday. Joining him in victory, Manchester City, Newcastle, and Tottenham also overcame third-tier opponents to reach the tournament’s last 16.

Making his fifth appearance for Arsenal since a summer transfer from Crystal Palace, Eze calmly finished in the eighth minute after running on to a precise flick from Myles Lewis-Skelly. Leandro Trossard sealed the win with a goal in the 86th minute.

Arsenal, treating the competition as a lower priority for the season, fielded a heavily rotated squad. Despite this, manager Mikel Arteta faces growing expectations to secure the club’s first major trophy since 2020.

Pep Guardiola employed a similar strategy with Manchester City, rotating his squad but starting Phil Foden. The England midfielder scored the opener from outside the box and assisted Savinho, who added City’s second in a 2-0 win at Huddersfield.

Tottenham’s highlight came from Joao Palhinha, whose stunning overhead kick contributed to a 3-0 win over Doncaster. Defending champions Newcastle dominated Bradford 4-1 at home, with both Joelinton and William Osula scoring twice.

Following the matches, the draw for the last 16 was announced. Four fixtures will feature Premier League clashes: Newcastle will host Tottenham in their title defense, while Arsenal is set to face Brighton. Liverpool will play Crystal Palace, and Wolverhampton will welcome Chelsea.

Popular second-tier Welsh side Wrexham, known globally and co-owned by actor Ryan Reynolds of “Deadpool” fame, will host Welsh rivals Cardiff. Another Welsh club, Swansea, has been drawn to play against Manchester City.

These fixtures set the stage for an exciting next phase in the English League Cup, as teams from various tiers continue their bids for the prestigious trophy.