Arsenal began their final Premier League home game of the 2024/25 season under heavy pressure as Newcastle United launched an early assault, seeking a fourth consecutive win over the Gunners this season. With Champions League qualification still technically unconfirmed, Mikel Arteta’s men appeared nervy and vulnerable in the opening stages.
Goalkeeper David Raya emerged as the clear hero of the first half, keeping Arsenal in the contest with a series of spectacular saves. Within the opening 20 minutes, he thwarted Bruno Guimaraes, Tino Livramento, Harvey Barnes, and Dan Burn. The pick of his efforts came in the 18th minute when he made a reflex save from Burn’s header and scrambled to deny Sven Botman’s rebound off the goal line.
Despite the relentless pressure, Arsenal weathered the storm and managed a few half-chances of their own, with Leandro Trossard and Thomas Partey coming closest. Nevertheless, they returned to the dressing room at halftime with much to improve and fortunate not to be trailing.
Rice Strikes to Settle Nerves
After an uninspiring first 45 minutes, Arsenal looked re-energized following the break. Their renewed intent was rewarded in the 55th minute when Declan Rice broke the deadlock with a moment of pure class. After Bukayo Saka dispossessed Anthony Gordon, Martin Odegaard found Rice on the edge of the box. The England international hit a first-time curler from 20 yards that beat Nick Pope and nestled into the far corner.
The Emirates erupted as the goal not only shifted the momentum in Arsenal’s favor but also marked Rice’s ninth strike in what has been a standout personal campaign. The energy and confidence returned to Arteta’s side, and they pushed forward looking to add a second.
Ben White came close with a driven effort just wide, while the return of Kai Havertz to the bench after a lengthy injury absence added to the feel-good atmosphere in north London.
Newcastle Fall Short Despite Promising Start
Newcastle had entered the game needing three points to confirm Champions League football next season. They dominated the opening spell, carving out clear opportunities and controlling possession. But their failure to convert early chances proved costly.
Without top scorer Alexander Isak due to a groin injury, the Magpies lacked a clinical edge in front of goal. Even as they attempted to rally after Rice’s goal, they were unable to reproduce their first-half threat. Harvey Barnes shot over from a promising position before being substituted, and former Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock flashed a shot wide late on.
Ultimately, Newcastle’s inability to breach Arsenal’s defense meant they left the capital empty-handed, though their strong goal difference keeps them in a favorable position ahead of their final game at home to Everton.
Arsenal Secure Second Spot and Champions League Football
The 1-0 victory lifted Arsenal to 71 points with one game left to play. Only Manchester City, currently on 65 points with two games in hand, can match their tally. However, with the Gunners enjoying a superior goal difference, second place is all but assured—marking their third straight season as Premier League runners-up under Mikel Arteta.
More importantly, the win confirmed Arsenal’s return to the UEFA Champions League next season, a reward for a largely consistent campaign that only faltered in recent weeks. Ending a five-match winless streak and a home hoodoo against Newcastle, the victory served as a much-needed morale boost.
Though Arteta was booked late in the game and will miss the season finale due to suspension, the team’s main objectives have been achieved, allowing them to head into the summer with a sense of progress and stability.
Final Day: A Low-Stakes Trip to Southampton
Arsenal will wrap up their 2024/25 campaign with a visit to already-relegated Southampton on Sunday, May 25. With Champions League qualification and second place effectively sealed, the match offers Arteta the chance to rotate his squad and perhaps give minutes to returning players like Havertz.
For Newcastle, however, the stakes remain high. They sit third with 66 points, but only one point separates them from seventh-placed Nottingham Forest. Victory against Everton at St James’ Park next Sunday is imperative to ensure they secure their spot among Europe’s elite for the second year in a row.
As the Premier League draws to a dramatic close, Arsenal can breathe easy, their narrow win ensuring another year of continental football and keeping fans dreaming of bigger triumphs ahead
