Alexander Isak’s lone goal saw Arsenal drop points against Newcastle in the Premier League clash at St James’ Park.
The Swedish striker scored with a 12th-minute header after Arsenal failed to clear their lines, allowing Anthony Gordon to deliver a well-placed cross into the box.
Arsenal began the game strongly, but after Isak’s goal, they struggled to control the match and lacked creativity in the attacking third.
Mikel Arteta introduced changes in the second half to break down Newcastle’s resilient defense, yet his team managed only one shot on target throughout the match.
The win lifts Newcastle to eighth in the league, while Arsenal, in third, could fall eight points behind leaders Manchester City if Pep Guardiola’s side defeats Bournemouth later on Saturday.
Arsenal’s title race hopes dented
Ahead of the match, Arteta cautioned that it was “too early” to discuss the title race, but this defeat puts Arsenal in a challenging position.
The Spanish manager hinted that injuries have disrupted his team at times, though Gabriel and Jurrien Timber, who picked up knocks in last week’s draw against Liverpool, both started in Newcastle, with William Saliba also returning from suspension.
Bukayo Saka, whose fitness has been monitored closely, played 85 minutes against Liverpool, appeared as a substitute in the midweek win over Preston, and started again against Newcastle. However, the absence of Martin Odegaard was clearly felt, as Arsenal lacked fluidity and vision against the Magpies.
Last season’s encounter at St James’ Park ended with the same scoreline amid controversy, as Gordon’s goal went through three VAR checks, all favoring Newcastle, prompting Arteta to call the decision a “disgrace.” This time, however, he had no complaints, as Newcastle outperformed Arsenal.
Though Arsenal dominated possession in the second half, they couldn’t find a breakthrough, with Declan Rice’s header — arguably their best chance — going wide in the closing minutes.
Arteta’s team remained unbeaten until a 2-0 loss to Bournemouth two weeks ago, but they’re now winless in three league games, losing critical ground to their title rivals.
Newcastle back on track
Newcastle entered the match sitting 10th in the league and winless in their previous five games, raising growing concerns about their form.
However, manager Eddie Howe noted that the team’s confidence had been lifted by their impressive 2-0 EFL Cup victory over Chelsea on Wednesday. Isak’s early goal gave Newcastle the momentum they needed to control the game.
This year, only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland (24) and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer (21) have scored more Premier League goals than Isak, who has netted 17 times.
Newcastle managed the match effectively, defending solidly and disrupting play to suit their strategy. Joe Willock had opportunities to increase their lead, and Isak’s powerful shot was saved by David Raya.
The standout performances came from full-backs Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento, whose excellent defensive work limited the impact of Arsenal’s Saka and Gabriel Martinelli on the wings.
Last season, Newcastle’s domestic and European commitments hindered their ability to maintain top form, but this victory renews their hopes of returning to those heights.