Newcastle Reach Carabao Cup Last 16 Thanks to Willock Winner at Millwall
Joe Willock’s late finish sent Newcastle United into the Carabao Cup last 16, as the holders overcame a determined Millwall side 1-0 at The Den.
Newcastle, winners of the competition in 2025, arrived in south London with a strong side selected by Jaissle for the third-round tie. Yet possession brought little fluency for much of the contest, with the Premier League visitors struggling to turn their control into clear opportunities.
The first hour produced only one Newcastle effort on target. Willock came closest when he drove a fierce shot towards the near corner, but Millwall goalkeeper Filip Marschall reacted sharply to push it away.
Millwall had chances to create a major cup surprise, particularly after Tairyk Arconte entered from the bench. The substitute capitalised on uncertainty in Newcastle’s defending and broke through on goal, only for his low strike to rebound from the post.
Newcastle also felt they should have had a penalty immediately before the interval. Fabian Schar appeared to have his shirt held by Caleb Taylor inside the area, but the referee rejected the visitors’ appeals and play continued.
With a shootout beginning to look increasingly likely, Newcastle finally found the decisive moment in the 81st minute. Lewis Hall drove a measured cross into the box and Willock arrived first to guide the ball into the net, ending Millwall’s resistance and bringing relief to the travelling support.
The victory preserves Jaissle’s unbeaten opening to the campaign and takes Newcastle into the fourth round. They return to Premier League duty next against Leeds United, while Millwall will resume their Championship schedule at home to Blackburn Rovers.
