Arsenal Stage Dramatic Late Comeback to Beat Newcastle and Close Gap on Liverpool

Arsenal produced a stunning late comeback to defeat Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’ Park, with injury-time headers from Gabriel and substitute Mikel Merino sealing a crucial win for Mikel Arteta’s side in the Premier League title race.

Nick Woltemade had given Newcastle a first-half lead with a powerful header, capitalising on a defensive lapse from Gabriel, who controversially went to ground claiming a push. Replays showed minimal contact, and the hosts took full advantage to go into the break ahead.

Arsenal were left furious in the second half when referee Jarred Gillett overturned his initial decision to award a penalty to Viktor Gyokeres after a challenge from Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope. A lengthy VAR review concluded Pope had made sufficient contact with the ball, denying Arsenal a potentially game-changing opportunity.

But Arteta’s side refused to be denied. With just six minutes of regular time remaining, former Newcastle midfielder Mikel Merino rose highest to nod in the equaliser from a corner. The Gunners pressed for a winner, sensing a chance to capitalise on Liverpool’s earlier defeat to Crystal Palace.

Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Gabriel made amends for his earlier error, powering home another header in the 96th minute to complete a dramatic turnaround. It marked Arsenal’s 36th goal from a corner since the start of the 2023/24 season—15 more than any other Premier League team in that span.

The win lifts Arsenal within two points of league leaders Liverpool and ends a run of three consecutive defeats at St James’ Park.