Arsenal produced a stunning late comeback to beat Newcastle 2-1 at St. James’ Park on Sunday, laying down a serious marker in the Premier League title race.
The Gunners looked destined for a fourth straight defeat on Tyneside after falling behind to Nick Woltemade’s first-half header. But second-half goals from Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhaes, the latter in the 96th minute, lifted Mikel Arteta’s side into second place—just two points behind leaders Liverpool.
Liverpool’s surprise first defeat of the season at Crystal Palace on Saturday had opened the door for Arsenal, though for much of the afternoon it seemed the chance might slip away in a fiery contest.
Newcastle Strike First
Despite Arsenal’s bright start—Eberechi Eze forcing an early save
from Nick Pope and Leandro Trossard striking the post—it was Newcastle who struck first. Woltemade, the club’s record signing brought in to replace Alexander Isak, rose above Gabriel to head home Sandro Tonali’s cross on 34 minutes. Arsenal’s appeals for a foul were waved away as St. James’ Park erupted.
The Gunners had earlier been furious when referee Jarred Gillett overturned a penalty decision after VAR ruled Pope had got a slight touch on the ball before colliding with Viktor Gyökeres.
Arsenal Turn It Around
Arsenal dominated possession after the break, with Pope again denying Jurrien Timber. But it was midfielder Mikel Merino—playing as an emergency striker for much of last season—who pulled them level, glancing Declan Rice’s cross into the far corner.
Newcastle almost regained the lead when Gabriel blocked Anthony Elanga’s cross with his arm, but a VAR review spared the visitors. Minutes later, the Brazilian defender turned match-winner, powering home Martin Ødegaard’s corner in stoppage time to snatch all three points.
A Statement Win
Arteta’s more adventurous team selection, restoring Bukayo Saka and Eze to the XI after criticism of his caution against Manchester City, also paid dividends.
For Newcastle, the defeat was a bitter blow after another resilient display, leaving Eddie Howe’s men struggling to build consistency in the top half.
(with AFP inputs)
