Newcastle United’s pre-season winless run stretched to three games after a 3–2 loss to Arsenal in Singapore, but there were brighter signs for Eddie Howe’s side than in the 4–0 defeat at Celtic a week earlier.
New £52 million signing Anthony Elanga marked his full debut with a silly goal, and Jacob Murphy added a second, but a late penalty from Martin Odegaard settled an eventful match.
Anthony Elanga off the mark! pic.twitter.com/EGeB1Om5am
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 28, 2025
The Swedish winger gave Newcastle the lead in the sixth minute,
finishing Sandro Tonali’s low cross at the back post. Though Elanga’s shot was mishit, the finish crept in via the inside of the woodwork and capped a well-constructed play involving Kieran Trippier.
Arsenal responded midway through the first half. Mikel Merino, once Magpie, equalised with a composed finish after a Kai Havertz flick.
Moments later, a low cross from Havertz caused trouble in the box and defender Alex Murphy inadvertently diverted the ball past Nick Pope for an own goal.
Stunning strike from Murph! pic.twitter.com/rQ18ze5djD
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 28, 2025
Howe made nine changes at the break, including the introduction of Murphy for Elanga, and the winger quickly made his mark.
With 58 minutes played, Jacob cut inside and fired a low left-footed shot into the corner from outside the box to level the score at 2–2.
Arsenal’s 15-year-old Max Dowman troubled Newcastle’s left flank and drew a penalty in the 83rd minute after being tripped by Joelinton. Odegaard converted to restore the Gunners’ lead, which they held to the final whistle.
Important minutes into the legs in Singapore! pic.twitter.com/N0VHweItGB
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 27, 2025
William Osula, continuing to start up front in Alexander Isak’s absence, worked hard again and nearly scored with a second-half header, but Newcastle’s search for a proven backup striker remains unresolved.
Howe acknowledged after the match that Osula “had to be ready” for the season opener if needed, and confirmed Isak would not join the squad on the Asia tour.
Defensively, there were concerns as Sven Botman, returning from a long-term knee issue, came on at half-time but left after just 25 minutes clutching his groin.
The boss on a valuable workout against Arsenal. pic.twitter.com/gNlqLIMQ54
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 27, 2025
Newcastle next face Team K League in South Korea before wrapping up pre-season.
“We’re not deluded,” Howe said about Newcastle’s winless preseason. “We know we need to bring players in.”
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