Arsenal Secure Dramatic Stoppage-Time Win Over Newcastle in Premier League Clash

Arsenal delivered a memorable performance at St James’ Park, overcoming a first-half deficit to claim a dramatic 2-1 victory over Newcastle United. The win was sealed by a last-gasp header from Gabriel Magalhães in the 96th minute, following Mikel Merino’s equaliser in the 84th minute.

Newcastle struck first through Nick Woltemade, who met a short corner with a header in the 34th minute. This goal came after a miscued back-pass by Arsenal’s defenders, giving the home side a deserved lead. Arsenal responded before halftime with increasing intensity, and their breakthrough finally came in the 84th minute via Merino, who connected with a Declan Rice short corner to head the ball in and level the score. That goal was crucial in shifting the momentum.

As the match entered stoppage time, Arsenal poured forward in search of the winner. In the 96th minute, a corner from Martin Ødegaard found Gabriel in the box. He rose above the defenders to head the ball past Nick Pope, delivering a stunning late victory for the Gunners.

The match also included a moment of VAR drama. Early in the first half, Arsenal appeared to win a penalty when Viktor Gyokeres was challenged by Pope, but after a long review the decision was overturned as the contact was judged to involve the ball. Bukayo Saka later commented that it was not a “clear and obvious error,” and felt the check took too long.

Key players made their mark. Ødegaard’s set-piece delivery proved decisive, while Merino, coming off the bench, showed his aerial strength with the equaliser. Gabriel, defensively solid all evening, then produced the decisive header. Manager Mikel Arteta praised his side’s character and resilience, saying the win proved Arsenal’s ability to dig deep in tight contests. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted his frustration at conceding so late but noted that his team showed commitment and energy throughout the match.

This result boosts Arsenal’s standing in the Premier League title race. The victory moved them into second place, closing the gap on leaders Liverpool and underlining their credentials as challengers. For Newcastle, it was a tough defeat at home, but their attacking approach and intensity remain positives to take forward.

The way Arsenal recovered and clinched victory in the final moments highlighted their growing maturity under Arteta. This win could be remembered as one of those defining matches that shape a season, combining belief, determination and execution at the very highest level.