From the start, the away team dominated the game. Consecutive shots by Eberechi Eze and Leandro Trossard forced goalkeeper Nick Pope to work hard, even one shot reached the post.
However, the tension increased when Arsenal were not awarded a penalty after the collision between Viktor Gyokeres and Pope. Referee Jarred Gillett initially pointed to the 11m mark, but after consulting VAR, he changed his decision because he thought the Newcastle goalkeeper had touched the ball first.
The frustration was even greater when just a few minutes later, rookie Nick Woltemade opened the scoring with a header past David Raya. Although Gabriel thought he was pushed, the goal was still recognized. Arsenal ended the first half behind and uncomfortable.
Entering the second half, coach Mikel Arteta urged his players to attack. Pope continued to play miraculously, blocking Jurrien Timber's close-range header.
It was not until the 84th minute that Arsenal's perseverance was rewarded. From Declan Rice's cross, midfielder Mikel Merino came on as a replacement, jumping high to head the ball, sending the ball up the post straight into the net, equalizing 1-1.
The drama has not stopped. In extra time, the Gunners created a breathless pressure. From a corner kick, Gabriel jumped high to head the ball accurately, sealing a 2-1 victory for Arsenal.
This victory helped Arsenal rise to second place in the group with 13 points, only 2 points behind Liverpool. The result is also an affirmation of the strength and bravery of Arteta and his team in the race for the Premier League championship in the 2025-2026 season.
