Arsenal pulled off a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on Sunday, reigniting their Premier League title challenge. With Liverpool’s earlier loss opening the door, the Gunners seized the opportunity—snapping a frustrating run of defeats on Tyneside and edging within two points of the league leaders.
Arsenal Break the St. James’ Park Curse
Coming into the match, Arsenal had every reason to feel the pressure. They hadn’t scored in their last three trips to Newcastle, let alone taken points. Add to that an unsettling stat: Bukayo Saka, captaining the side in Martin Ødegaard’s absence, had yet to lead Arsenal to an away win. But Mikel Arteta’s men didn’t allow past struggles to shape the present.
Right from kickoff, Arsenal set the tone with three early efforts on goal, two forcing saves from Nick Pope. The attacking trio of Eberechi Eze, Riccardo Calafiori, and Saka were dynamic, creating space and pressing high.
Newcastle Strike First—But Can’t Build on It
Despite Arsenal’s aggressive start, it was Newcastle who struck first. On his only real chance of the game, Nick Woltemade headed home a pinpoint Sandro Tonali cross, becoming only the sixth Magpie in history to score in both of his first two home games. That goal flipped the momentum and played into recent form—Newcastle had avoided defeat in their last eight league matches when scoring first, while Arsenal hadn’t managed a win in their last five after conceding first.
Yet, the Gunners refused to let history dictate the outcome.
Midfield Masterclass Keeps Arsenal in Control
Declan Rice put in a tireless shift, dictating play and maintaining relentless pressure on the Magpies. By half-time, Arsenal had enjoyed the majority of possession, and Rice had recorded more touches in the opposition box than any other player.
Martin Zubimendi also impressed, completing 90% of his passes and orchestrating transitions that left Newcastle chasing shadows—much like they had against Barcelona earlier in the week.
After the break, Arsenal continued their dominance, registering four shots and nearly 77% possession within the first 15 minutes. But Pope stood tall in goal, keeping Arsenal at bay with a string of superb saves. Meanwhile, Dan Burn and Thiaw were rocks at the back, making key tackles and clearances to preserve Newcastle’s narrow lead.
Merino Levels in the Final Minutes
As the clock ticked down, Arsenal piled on the pressure. Viktor Gyokeres saw multiple efforts go begging, and it seemed as though the Gunners would leave frustrated once again. But in the 88th minute, substitute Mikel Merino met a perfect Declan Rice cross and glanced a header into the back of the net.
Not only was it his first league goal of the season, but it also made him Arsenal’s top Premier League scorer in 2025 with seven goals—a crucial contribution at a vital moment.
Gabriel’s 96th-Minute Winner Seals the Comeback
Arsenal weren’t done. With six minutes of injury time added, the visitors sensed the winner was there for the taking—and they were right. In the 96th minute, Gabriel rose highest from a corner and buried a thumping header past Pope, securing a sensational three points.
It was Gabriel’s first goal since November 2024, but more importantly, it marked the end of a long drought for Arsenal, who hadn’t won a Premier League game after trailing at half-time in over 18 months.
Newcastle Left Searching for Answers
Eddie Howe will be left to reflect on what might have been. Despite scoring first and defending valiantly for most of the match, his side offered little going forward—managing just three shots on target in front of their home fans. Jurrien Timber’s defensive and attacking involvement exemplified Arsenal’s hunger, as he engaged in 17 duels and was a constant threat.
Newcastle’s lack of offensive sharpness and Arsenal’s relentless pursuit of victory proved the difference.
