Arsenal demonstrated their title credentials with a stunning late comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over Newcastle United at a hostile St. James’ Park on Sunday. After trailing for much of the game and being denied by a controversial VAR decision, Mikel Arteta’s side scored twice in the final stages to overturn a first-half deficit and claim a crucial three points in the Premier League race.
The Gunners were aiming for a strong response after their defeat to Liverpool before the international break, and this resilient performance will provide a massive confidence boost.
VAR controversy denies dominant Gunners
Arsenal started the match brightly and dominated the opening exchanges, with Eberechi Eze forcing a sensational save from Nick Pope. Their early pressure seemed to have paid off when Viktor Gyökeres was brought down by the goalkeeper to win a penalty. However, in a controversial intervention, VAR advised referee Jarred Gillett to overturn his on-field decision, spotting a slight touch on the ball from Pope.
Despite the setback, the visitors continued to push, with Leandro Trossard crashing an effort off the inside of the post. But against the run of play, it was Newcastle United who took the lead from a well-worked short corner routine, with Nick Woltemade cushioning a header past David Raya.
Arteta’s substitutes inspire the turnaround
The Gunners moved through the gears in the second half, creating several big chances that were spurned. Mikel Arteta went full throttle with his substitutions, and the introduction of Mikel Merino proved decisive. The Spaniard flicked home a wicked, whipped delivery from Declan Rice to level the scores.
Refusing to settle for a point, Arsenal pushed for a winner. After surviving a VAR scare for a potential Gabriel handball at one end, the Brazilian defender became the hero at the other, heading home a Martin Ødegaard corner deep in stoppage time to win it for the Gunners. This victory is more than just three points; it is a significant statement of Arsenal‘s mental fortitude and growing maturity.
Arsenal player ratings (4-2-3-1)
Ratings provided by FotMob
- GK: David Raya – 7.0
- RB: Jurriën Timber – 7.6
- CB: Cristhian Mosquera – 6.3
- CB: Gabriel – 8.5
- LB: Riccardo Calafiori – 6.6
- CM: Declan Rice – 8.5
- CM: Martín Zubimendi – 7.8
- AM: Eberechi Eze – 7.2
- RW: Bukayo Saka – 7.2
- ST: Viktor Gyökeres – 6.8
- LW: Leandro Trossard – 7.1