Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães completed a dramatic redemption arc, scoring a 96th-minute header to seal a 2–1 comeback win over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.
⚽ From Mistake to Miracle
Gabriel was at fault for Newcastle’s opener, going down too easily under pressure from Nick Woltemade, who headed home in the 34th minute. But the Brazilian rose highest in stoppage time to nod in Martin Odegaard’s corner, sending Arsenal fans into delirium.
“Letting the team down earlier hurt,” Gabriel said. “I had to make it right.”
🧠 Tactical Shift
Manager Mikel Arteta made bold changes, bringing on Merino, Odegaard, and Saliba. Merino equalized in the 84th minute from a Declan Rice cross, and Odegaard’s delivery set up the winner.
Arteta praised the squad’s resilience:
“This is what football is about. When you get what you deserve at the end, it’s a beautiful feeling.”
📊 Match Stats
Possession: Arsenal 64% – Newcastle 36%
Shots: Arsenal 20 – Newcastle 8
Corners: Arsenal 12 – Newcastle 7
🧭 Title Implications
With Liverpool losing to Crystal Palace, Arsenal now sits two points behind the leaders, reigniting their title hopes.
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