Gabriel’s 96th-minute winner completes a dramatic Arsenal comeback at St James’ Park.
Arsenal defeated Newcastle United 2-1 thanks to a 96th-minute header from Gabriel Magalhães. The stunning reversal not only rescued three critical points, but also delivered a powerful early statement in the Premier League title battle, closing the distance on Liverpool following their shock defeat to Crystal Palace.
The night began chaotically for Arsenal’s defence, with Nick Woltemade capitalising on Gabriel’s rare mistake of judgement to put Newcastle ahead in the 34th minute. The Brazilian centre-back went down far too easily after minimal touch from the towering 6ft 6in attacker, allowing Wolte to score a free header into the corner. Moments earlier, Cristian Mosquera cut a basic pass out for a corner, giving the hosts impetus that they hardly deserved.
Prior to the beginning, Arsenal appeared to be the more dangerous team. Eberechi Eze forced two wonderful stops from Nick Pope, including a fantastic low stop inside the first six minutes, while Leandro Trossard hit the post. There was more debate when Viktor Gyökeres rounded Pope and appeared to be taken down with the goal open. Referee Jarred Gillett pointed to the spot, but VAR intervened, judging that Pope had made a faint touch on the ball before colliding.
That decision caused debate among players and commentators alike, and Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka did not hide his displeasure afterward.
“For me, VAR is for clear and obvious errors,” Saka told me. “The fact that the referee took so long to make a decision indicates that it was not a clear and obvious error. These minor details typically work against us, but tonight we received what we deserved.”
Despite the loss, Arsenal refused to give up. In the second half, Pope made another wonderful reaction stop to deny Jurrien Timber, but Mikel Arteta’s team demonstrated tremendous tenacity, much as they did against Manchester City last week.
Declan Rice provided a wonderful cross in the 82nd minute, which was met by replacement Mikel Merino, who headed in an excellent equaliser. Reflecting on what many dubbed a “swing weekend” of Premier League results, Merino disregarded the larger storyline and concentrated on the team’s mentality.
“Maybe more for the fans or you guys [media] than for us,” Merino said. “We are aware of how hard we work. “Winning the way we did today demonstrates the character of the team and how much we trust each other.” ❤️
But the night had one more surprise.
With the clock long into stoppage time, Gabriel made amends for his previous error in dramatic style. Rising highest from a floating delivery, he smashed a bullet header past Pope to complete the turnaround and set off wild celebrations among the away fans.
“This is unbelievable! Nothing beats late-season football victories! “I am speechless!” Saka added later.
The outcome will be considered as a statement victory, not only for Arsenal’s title credentials, but also for their increasing reputation as a tenacious team that refuses to accept defeat. From despair to elation, St James’ Park witnessed one of the most exhilarating finishes of the season thus far.
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