Arsenal Edge Newcastle 3-2 in Thrilling Singapore Pre-Season Clash

Arsenal continued their pre-season winning streak with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Premier League rivals Newcastle United at the Singapore National Stadium on Sunday evening, thanks to a late penalty from captain Martin Ødegaard.

In front of a vibrant crowd of over 38,700 fans, Newcastle struck first through new signing Anthony Elanga, who fired home in the sixth minute following a well-placed cross from Sandro Tonali. However, Arsenal found their footing midway through the first half.

Mikel Merino equalized in the 33rd minute with a sharp finish after a clever flick from Kai Havertz, and just two minutes later, the Gunners went ahead courtesy of an own goal by Newcastle’s Alex Murphy.

Despite Arsenal dominating the second half, Newcastle leveled the score in the 58th minute through Jacob Murphy, whose long-range strike slipped past Arsenal keeper David Raya.

With the match heading for a draw, 15-year-old Max Dowman made a decisive run into the box and was brought down by Joelinton. Ødegaard calmly converted the resulting penalty in the 84th minute to seal the win.

The victory marks Arsenal’s second consecutive win of their Asia tour, following a 1-0 triumph over AC Milan, and adds momentum as they prepare for the upcoming season.

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