Arsenal Player Ratings: Gabriel’s Late Heroics Seal Dramatic Win

Arsenal player ratings took center stage at St James’ Park as Mikel Arteta’s side claimed a thrilling 2-1 victory over Newcastle United, courtesy of Gabriel’s dramatic 96th-minute winner. This stunning result, forged in the dying moments, keeps the Gunners firmly in the Premier League title race and will be remembered as a testament to their resilience.

Arsenal Player Ratings Shine After St James’ Park Thriller

Arsenal player ratings began with a rollercoaster as the match unfolded. The Gunners, fresh off Liverpool’s slip-up against Crystal Palace, started brightly and pressed Newcastle from the outset. Eberechi Eze, lively and creative, forced two outstanding saves from Nick Pope within the opening quarter-hour, hinting at Arsenal’s intent.

However, Newcastle struck first against the run of play. Defensive errors proved costly when Nick Woltemade capitalized on a misjudged clearance by Cristhian Mosquera and a weak challenge from Gabriel. The 6ft 6in striker leapt unchallenged, nodding the ball past a helpless Aaron Ramsdale, and Arsenal found themselves trailing.

Second-Half Resurgence and VAR Drama

Arsenal’s response was immediate as they searched for an equalizer. Bukayo Saka caused problems on the right, and Leandro Trossard rattled the post, but Nick Pope’s heroics kept Newcastle ahead. The Gunners thought they had a lifeline when Viktor Gyokeres was brought down in the box—referee Jarred Gillett pointed to the spot, only for VAR to overturn the decision as Pope got the faintest touch on the ball.

Unfazed, Arsenal continued to press in the second half. Jurrien Timber’s effort was denied superbly by Pope, and the sense grew that Arsenal would not leave empty-handed.

Gabriel Turns Villain to Hero in Arsenal Player Ratings

Mikel Arteta made a pivotal change, introducing Mikel Merino, whose impact was immediate. With just minutes remaining, Declan Rice whipped in a perfect delivery and Merino rose highest to head home the equalizer, igniting the away supporters.

The drama, however, was far from over. In the dying embers, Arsenal won a corner, and Gabriel—whose earlier mistake had cost a goal—redeemed himself spectacularly. Rising above the Newcastle defense, he powered home a header deep into stoppage time, sealing all three points and turning from zero to hero in the Arsenal player ratings.

Full Arsenal Player Ratings vs Newcastle

• Aaron Ramsdale (GK): 6/10 – Unfortunate on the goal, competent otherwise.
• Cristhian Mosquera (CB): 5/10 – Error led to opener, struggled under pressure.
• Gabriel (CB): 8/10 – At fault for first goal but redeemed himself as match-winner.
• Jurrien Timber (RB): 7/10 – Provided energy, unlucky not to score.
• Leandro Trossard (LW): 7/10 – Hit the post, a constant threat.
• Eberechi Eze (CAM): 8/10 – Created chances, forced two key saves.
• Bukayo Saka (RW): 7/10 – Dynamic and dangerous throughout.
• Declan Rice (CM): 8/10 – Crucial assist at a pivotal moment.
• Mikel Merino (Sub): 8/10 – Super-sub with the vital equalizer.
• Viktor Gyokeres (ST): 6/10 – Won a penalty overturned by VAR, worked hard.

Arsenal Player Ratings and the Premier League Title Race

The significance of this win is immense for Arsenal’s ambitions. The Arsenal player ratings reflect a team that, despite setbacks and adversity, refuses to surrender. Gabriel’s journey from scapegoat to hero epitomizes the spirit needed to challenge for the Premier League title.

What This Means for Arsenal

Closing the gap on Liverpool, Arsenal have shown they can handle high-pressure situations with bravery and grit. Performances like this—where individuals step up in crucial moments—define title contenders. Arteta’s tactical switches paid off, and the Gunners’ squad depth came to the fore.

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Opinion: The Mark of Champions?

Matches like these are often remembered at the end of title races. Arsenal’s ability to bounce back, with players like Gabriel turning adversity into triumph, bodes well for their championship credentials. Consistency and resilience, reflected in these Arsenal player ratings, are becoming hallmarks of Arteta’s evolving side.