Arsenal staged a dramatic late comeback to beat Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’ Park on Sunday, closing the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool to just two points.
For much of the match, the Gunners were left frustrated by Nick Pope’s superb goalkeeping, wasted opportunities, and a contentious VAR call. But two late headers first from Mikel Merino in the 84th minute and then Gabriel in the 96th minute sealed a crucial win for Mikel Arteta’s side.
VAR Drama at 0-0
Arsenal thought they had won a penalty in the first half when Viktor Gyökeres was brought down by Pope after latching onto a poor back pass. Referee Jarred Gillett initially awarded the spot kick, but VAR overturned the decision, ruling Pope had made a slight touch on the ball.
That reprieve galvanized Newcastle, who took the lead in the 34th minute when Nick Woltemade powered in a header from a short corner after a sloppy back pass by Cristhian Mosquera gifted the hosts possession.
Arsenal’s Late Rescue Act
Despite relentless pressure, Arsenal trailed for most of the game as Pope denied Gyökeres and Bukayo Saka with crucial saves. The breakthrough came late when Declan Rice delivered a pinpoint cross from a short corner that Merino glanced home against his former club.
Then, deep into stoppage time, captain Martin Ødegaard’s corner found Gabriel, who rose highest in a crowded penalty area to head home the winner and send the away fans into raptures.
The victory lifts Arsenal into second place on 13 points from six games, keeping them firmly in the early title race. Newcastle, meanwhile, remain in 15th with six points, left to rue their inability to hold onto a lead.
With late goals already a theme of their season, Arsenal once again showed resilience and belief qualities that could prove decisive in their pursuit of silverware.
