Arsenal staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’ Park, earning a vital Premier League victory and ending their run of three consecutive defeats on Tyneside.
The match began with both sides creating early chances. Nick Pope showcased his reflexes by denying Eberechi Eze after just five minutes, while David Raya was tested by Malick Thiaw’s header at the other end. Arsenal thought they had the opener when Leandro Trossard struck powerfully, but his effort cannoned off the post. Eze continued to press for the visitors, but Pope stood firm, making key interventions to keep his side level.
Despite Arsenal’s pressure, it was Newcastle who struck first. In the 35th minute, Sandro Tonali’s short corner was whipped into the box, and Nick Woltemade rose highest to head home, punishing Arsenal after Gabriel Magalhães slipped at the crucial moment. The goal sent the home crowd into raptures, but it also shifted momentum firmly toward Eddie Howe’s men going into halftime.
Mikel Arteta responded by introducing William Saliba at the break, tightening Arsenal’s backline. The Gunners pressed for an equaliser through Eze and Jurriën Timber, whose header was superbly saved by Pope. Declan Rice also showed his defensive grit, sprinting back to block Jacob Murphy’s shot in a critical moment. Newcastle’s resistance, however, began to waver after Tino Livramento was forced off injured.
The breakthrough finally came in the 79th minute when Rice’s teasing cross was met by Mikel Merino, who guided his header in off the post to level the contest. Arsenal refused to settle for a point, and their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time. With the final whistle looming, Martin Ødegaard delivered a precise corner that Gabriel powered into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the travelling supporters.
The victory lifted Arsenal within two points of leaders Liverpool while condemning Newcastle to their second league defeat of the campaign. It was a fitting moment of redemption for Gabriel, whose earlier slip had led to Newcastle’s opener but who ultimately sealed the win.
