Yes, Arsenal defeated Newcastle United 3-2 in a pre-season friendly match that took place on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the National Stadium in Singapore.
Here are the highlights of the five-goal thriller:
Early Newcastle Lead: Newcastle United opened the scoring in just the 5th minute through new signing Anthony Elanga. His scuffed shot, off a cross from Sandro Tonali, deceived Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and looped into the net.
Arsenal’s Quickfire Turnaround: Arsenal responded swiftly with two goals in quick succession just after the half-hour mark:
32nd minute: Mikel Merino (playing against his former club) equalized for Arsenal. Kai Havertz laid the ball off brilliantly to Merino outside the area, who dispatched a sweet shot into the bottom corner.
34th minute: Arsenal took the lead through an own goal by Alex Murphy. Kai Havertz delivered a dangerous cross from the left that was intended for Bukayo Saka, but Murphy inadvertently thumped the ball into his own net.
Newcastle Levels Again: In the second half, Jacob Murphy brought Newcastle level in the 57th minute, squeezing a low shot through a crowded penalty area and just inside the post.
Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman
Teenage Sensation Wins Decisive Penalty: The game’s turning point came from 15-year-old Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman. He came on as a substitute and instantly injected energy, making a terrific run into the box where he was fouled by Joelinton, earning Arsenal a penalty.
Odegaard’s Late Winner: Captain Martin Odegaard stepped up and coolly dispatched the spot kick in the 83rd minute, securing the 3-2 victory for Arsenal.
The match was an intensive pre-season friendly, featuring a mix of established stars and young talents for both sides, with Arsenal’s new signing Viktor Gyökeres also paraded on the pitch before kick-off.
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