Arsenal super-subs make the difference in crucial Newcastle win 📊

Martin Ødegaard and Mikel Merino proved to be the difference makers for Arsenal as a late substitute in their narrow 2-1 win over Newcastle at St James' Park.

Mikel Arteta's side found themselves a goal down at the break, having conceded to a Nick Woltemade header.

But their mentality and squad depth showed late on as Merino came on to head home an equaliser. He now leads Arsenal's scoring charts this year (seven).

Mikel Merino has scored more Premier League goals in 2025 than any other Arsenal player (7).

While no player has scored more headed goals in the competition this calendar year than the Spaniard (4). 👏 pic.twitter.com/q5BYnoEN66

— Squawka (@Squawka) September 28, 2025

Then, during the eight minutes of added time, another substitute in Ødegaard provided the assist for Gabriel's winner.

The Norwegian international's pin-point corner was headed into the back of the net in the 96th minute, with set pieces coming in clutch for the Gunners once again.

🔁 82’ Substituted on.
🅰️ 96’ Assists the winner.

Martin Ødegaard, take a bow. 🎩 pic.twitter.com/BFoYLNRUBS

— DailyAFC (@DailyAFC) September 28, 2025

According to Opta data, the late winner timed at 95:45 was Arsenal's second-latest winning goal in a Premier League away game on record (since 2003-04).

The win takes Arsenal within two points of Premier League leaders Liverpool with six games played.

📸 George Wood - 2025 Getty Images