A thunderous Declan Rice goal earned a crucial 1-0 win over Newcastle United in last home match for Arsenal in the 2024/25 campaign, ensuring Champions League football next season and bringing Mikel Arteta’s team within touching distance of a third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League.
Raya Keeps Arsenal in the Game with Brilliant First-Half Saves
The opening period was David Raya’s, his succession of excellent saves keeping Arsenal in the tie as third-placed Newcastle dominated the early stages. Raya made amends for a poor clearance early on with a quick reflex save from Bruno Guimaraes, then capped that with a succession of top-drawer stops, a double stop to deny Dan Burn and Sven Botman being a particular highlight. The visitors were a threat, particularly through Harvey Barnes, but Raya remained unyielding.
Arsenal Struggle to Create in First Half
Arsenal, however, were unable to carve out opportunities in the first 45, although Leandro Trossard came close with a deflected curler and Thomas Partey forced a clever save from Nick Pope. Under pressure for most of the half, Arsenal remained level at the break.
Rice’s Stunning Strike Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough arrived ten minutes into the restart. Bukayo Saka stole the ball from Anthony Gordon high up the field and played Martin Odegaard, who played Rice just beyond the box. With what is now becoming a signature finish, the midfielder’s first-time effort flew past Pope and into the far corner his ninth of a remarkable season.
That target boosted the Emirates and initiated a more assured second-half showing. Ben White just missed a second with a low shot, and Kai Havertz’s return from injury after over three months out further brightened the atmosphere.
Newcastle Fade as Arsenal Coast to Win
Newcastle wilted after half-time, with half-chances presented to Barnes and Joe Willock spurned, and Raya had a far quieter second half. Arsenal coasted home with poise and intent.
The victory brings a four-game home win drought to an end. A point against Southampton, with one game left, will ensure a second-place finish on the final day of the campaign, next Sunday.
