Gabriel’s 96th-Minute Winner Seals Dramatic Arsenal Comeback at St James’ Park
Arsenal pulled off a stunning late comeback at St James’ Park, clinching a 2-1 victory over Newcastle United thanks to a 96th-minute header from Gabriel Magalhães. The dramatic turnaround not only snatched three crucial points but also sent a strong early message in the Premier League title race, cutting the gap at the top after Liverpool’s shock defeat to Crystal Palace.
The night began in chaotic fashion for Arsenal’s defence, as Nick Woltemade capitalised on a rare lapse in judgement from Gabriel to put Newcastle ahead in the 34th minute. The Brazilian centre-back went down far too easily under minimal contact from the towering 6ft 6in striker, allowing Woltemade a free header that nestled into the corner. Moments earlier, Cristian Mosquera had sliced a routine pass out for a corner, gifting the hosts momentum they scarcely deserved.
Before the opener, Arsenal looked the more threatening side. Eberechi Eze forced two fine saves from Nick Pope — one brilliant low stop inside the opening six minutes — while Leandro Trossard rattled the post. There was further controversy when Viktor Gyökeres rounded Pope and appeared to be brought down with the goal gaping. Referee Jarred Gillett pointed to the spot, only for VAR to intervene, ruling that Pope had made a faint touch on the ball before the collision.
That decision sparked debate among players and pundits alike — and Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka didn’t hide his frustration afterwards.
“For me, VAR is for clear and obvious errors,” Saka said. “The fact it took the referee that long to decide shows it’s NOT a clear and obvious error. These little things always go against us, but today we got what we deserved.”
Despite the setback, Arsenal refused to fold. In the second half, Pope once again denied Jurrien Timber with a magnificent reaction save, but Mikel Arteta’s side — just as they did against Manchester City last week — showed remarkable resolve.
Declan Rice delivered a perfect cross in the 82nd minute, met by substitute Mikel Merino, who glanced home a superb equalising header. Reflecting on what many called a “swing weekend” of Premier League results, Merino downplayed the wider narrative and focused on the team’s mentality.
“Maybe more for the fans or you guys [media] than for us,” Merino said. “We know the hard work we do. Winning the way we won today, it shows the character of the team, how much we trust each other.” ❤️
But the night still had one final twist.
With the clock ticking deep into stoppage time, Gabriel made amends for his earlier mistake in emphatic fashion. Rising highest from a floated delivery, he powered a bullet header beyond Pope to complete the turnaround and erupt wild celebrations among the away supporters.
“It’s unbelievable! Late winners in football — there’s nothing better! I’m speechless!” Saka added afterwards.
The result will be viewed as a statement victory — not only for Arsenal’s title credentials but for their growing identity as a relentless side who simply refuse to accept defeat. From despair to ecstasy, St James’ Park witnessed one of the most thrilling finishes of the season so far.
