Arsenal staged a dramatic late comeback to beat Newcastle United 2-1 at St. James’ Park and climb to second place in the Premier League table. 

Goals from Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhães in the closing stages turned the match on its head after Newcastle had led for most of the contest.

The hosts took the lead in the 34th minute when Niclas Woltemade converted from close range following fine work from Sandro Tonali. 

Eddie Howe’s side looked in control for long spells and thought they had survived an Arsenal penalty scare, with a VAR review overturning the referee’s decision after goalkeeper Nick Pope was judged not to have fouled Viktor Gyökeres.

Arsenal pressed after the break but found Newcastle’s defence resolute. It wasn’t until the 84th minute that the Gunners broke through, when Declan Rice set up Merino, who drilled home the equaliser. 

That goal gave the visitors renewed energy as they pushed for a winner in stoppage time.

Deep into added time, Arsenal’s persistence paid off. Martin Ødegaard’s corner was met by Gabriel, who rose above the Newcastle defence to head the ball into the net in the 96th minute.

With Pope caught out of position, the Brazilian’s strike completed a remarkable turnaround and sparked jubilant celebrations among the travelling supporters.

The result means Arsenal have now won after trailing at half-time in the Premier League for the first time since March 2023. 

It also moves Mikel Arteta’s side within two points of leaders Liverpool, who lost to Crystal Palace the previous day, strengthening the Gunners’ early-season title credentials.

For Newcastle, the defeat was a bitter blow after such a disciplined performance. 

Howe’s men sit 15th in the table with just one win from their opening six matches, a start that will concern supporters despite the battling display against one of the league’s title contenders.