Cheick Tiote’s son included as Newcastle mascot for Carabao Cup semi-final on the 14th anniversary of his late father’s famous goal in a 4-4 draw against Arsenal

Newcastle have included Cheick Tiote’s son as the mascot for their Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal.

The Magpies welcomed Rafael for the match against the Gunners as they sought to seal a place in the final.

His inclusion comes on the 14th anniversary of his late father’s famous goal against Arsenal.

Tiote memorably scored a stunning, 30-yard volley to complete one of the great Premier League comebacks.

Newcastle earned a 4-4 draw at home to Arsenal having been 4-0 down at half time back in 2011.

It was Tiote’s only goal for the club during his seven years at St James’ Park, during which time he made 156 appearances.

Newcastle stated they were honoured to welcome Tiote’s son Rafael to the semi-final

Tiote died in 2017 at the age of 30, after the Ivory Coast international suffered a heart attack during a training session with Chinese club Beijing Enterprise.

‘We are honoured to have Cheick Tiote’s son, Rafael as one of our mascots for tonight’s game,’ Newcastle shared in a post on social media.

‘Once a Geordie, always a Geordie.’

Rafael was born to the midfielder and partner Nikki Mpofu duting Tiote’s time at Newcastle. 

Newcastle entered the semi-final second leg aiming to preserve their first leg lead against the same opposition.

Eddie Howe’s side won the first leg of the semi-final 2-0 at the Emirates last month, with Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon scoring away.

Newcastle sealed their place in the final with by clinching another 2-0 win at home, with Jacob Murphy and Gordon scoring the goals.

‘Thankfully there wasn’t a four goal comeback this evening – it wouldn’t be the first time it happened at St. James’ Park on the 5th of February,’ Newcastle shared post-match.

‘We hope you had an incredible day, Rafael.’