Arsenal Secure Thrilling 3-2 Victory Over Newcastle United in Singapore Friendly — Viktor Gyökeres Unveiled
Team | 1st Half | 2nd Half | Final Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arsenal | 2 | 1 | 3 |
| Newcastle | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Arsenal continued their impressive pre-season run with a nail-biting 3-2 win over Newcastle United in Singapore, thanks to Martin Ødegaard’s decisive 85th-minute penalty. The evening also marked the high-profile unveiling of Arsenal’s new €63 million (approx. $74 million) signing, Viktor Gyökeres, who joined the squad just hours before kick-off.
Viktor Gyökeres Joins Arsenal, Makes Instant Impact with Fans
Fresh from completing his medical in London on Saturday, Gyökeres wasted no time traveling to Asia to join the team’s pre-season tour. The 27-year-old forward was introduced to an enthusiastic crowd of 38,720 fans at the Singapore National Stadium. Gyökeres engaged with supporters by mimicking his signature “mask” goal celebration, igniting excitement about his arrival at the club.
Match Highlights: A Hard-Fought Battle in Humid Conditions
The game started with Newcastle United taking the lead inside the first six minutes. Sandro Tonali’s clever run down the right flank delivered a precise cross to Anthony Elanga, Newcastle’s £55 million signing from Nottingham Forest, who managed to score despite a scuffed shot, beating Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
Arsenal found their rhythm after the 30-minute mark. A slick team move involving Mikel Merino, Leandro Trossard, and Kai Havertz culminated in Merino’s clinical finish to level the score. Just two minutes later, Arsenal took the lead thanks to a moment of misfortune for Newcastle: Trossard’s low cross from the left led to Alex Murphy scoring an own goal while attempting to clear.
Injury Concerns and Tactical Changes
The Gunners faced a scare just before halftime when Riccardo Calafiori had to leave the pitch due to what appeared to be a fitness issue. Manager Mikel Arteta responded with a halftime substitution, replacing Ethan Nwaneri with captain Martin Ødegaard.
Newcastle made extensive changes at the break, keeping only Nick Pope and William Osula from their starting lineup, indicating their focus on squad rotation during this tour.
Second-Half Drama and Late Drama
The second half saw intense attacking play from both sides. Bukayo Saka produced a spectacular bicycle kick saved by Pope, while Newcastle’s Jacob Murphy equalized with a powerful strike from 20 yards out.
Young talent Max Dowman made an impact off the bench for Arsenal, testing Pope with a curling effort. Ødegaard’s long-range strike forced another save, showcasing his pivotal role in midfield.
The match’s climax came when a surging run from the 15-year-old Dowman was halted illegally inside the box, awarding Arsenal a penalty. Ødegaard stepped up confidently to convert, securing Arsenal’s victory and maintaining their 100% winning record on this pre-season tour.
Why This Victory Matters for Arsenal’s Pre-Season Momentum
This win not only boosts Arsenal’s morale but also integrates new signing Viktor Gyökeres into the squad atmosphere, setting a positive tone ahead of the competitive season. The team showed resilience in challenging weather conditions and against strong opposition, with key players like Ødegaard and Trossard stepping up when it mattered.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
As the Gunners continue their pre-season campaign, fans will be eager to see how Gyökeres adapts to the Premier League style and how the squad gels before the official season kickoff. Keep an eye on upcoming friendlies as Arsenal look to build fitness, sharpen tactics, and maintain their winning momentum.
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