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Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal: Surprise star earns 9/10 as Gunners secure vital win

By on September 29, 2025

Arsenal ended their poor run at St James’ Park with a dramatic late win, securing three points in a thrilling finish on Tyneside.

The visitors thought they had earned a penalty when Viktor Gyokeres went down under Nick Pope’s challenge, but VAR judged the keeper touched the ball. Moments later, Leandro Trossard struck the post from close range.

Newcastle made Arsenal pay for those wasted chances. From a short corner routine, Nick Woltemade rose to head home and give the hosts the lead.

The game seemed to be slipping away until substitute Mikel Merino powered in a header at the back post to level the score at 1-1 in the 84th minute.

Gabriel Magalhaes then sealed the victory with another header deep into stoppage time, sparking wild celebrations among the travelling supporters.

Arsenal player ratings

David Raya – 6

Had little chance with Woltemade’s goal, beaten by a powerful header. Collected crosses well and remained calm when called upon.

Jurrien Timber – 8

Delivered a superb cross for Eberechi Eze and defended strongly against Anthony Gordon. Had a header saved by Pope but impressed overall.

Cristhian Mosquera – 5

Struggled in possession and gave away the corner that led to Newcastle’s opener. Replaced at half-time after one of his poorer outings.

Gabriel Magalhaes – 7.5

Risked a penalty late on and was fortunate with a VAR check earlier. At fault for the Newcastle goal but redeemed himself with the winning goal in the final minutes.

Riccardo Calafiori – 6

Passed well in phases but was booked after halting a Newcastle counter through Livramento.

Martin Zubimendi – 7

Neat and tidy in midfield. Covered the defence and kept the ball moving without any serious errors.

Declan Rice – 9

Outstanding throughout. Broke up Newcastle attacks and created chances. Assisted Merino’s equaliser after closing down Murphy with determination.

Eberechi Eze – 7

Bright and inventive. Tested Pope on several occasions but could not find the net.

Bukayo Saka – 7

Battled with Dan Burn all game. Showed flashes of quality but was substituted late on.

Leandro Trossard – 6

Hit the post in the first half and worked hard, though faded before being replaced.

Viktor Gyokeres – 7

Always dangerous and thought he had won a penalty. Moved well into attacking positions and link up play was much better.

Impact from the bench

William Saliba – 7

Came on at the break and gave away nothing, steadying the backline.

Gabriel Martinelli – 6

Had little influence after being introduced with 20 minutes left.

Mikel Merino – 7

Made an instant impact, scoring with a superb header to bring Arsenal level.

Martin Odegaard – 7.5

Added control late on and showed his usual sharpness on the ball. Superb corner led to the winner.

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 5

Played a short cameo, helping out in midfield and left-back. Nearly created a chance but Newcastle defended well.