Arsenal secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Newcastle United in a thrilling pre-season friendly held in Singapore on July 27, 2025. The match took place at the iconic Singapore National Stadium and was part of the Singapore Festival of Football, marking an exciting start to both teams’ preparations ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
The game was notable not only for the result but also for the atmosphere and the debut of some new signings, setting the tone for what fans can expect this season. Arsenal introduced their €63 million (approximately $74 million) summer signing Viktor Gyökeres just before kickoff, drawing enthusiastic cheers from the 38,720-strong crowd. The 27-year-old forward ignited excitement with his presence as supporters mimicked his trademark “mask” goal celebration, signaling new attacking options for the Gunners.
Newcastle started the match strongly, taking the lead within the first six minutes. A dangerous run down the right by Sandro Tonali culminated in a cross to Anthony Elanga, a high-profile £55 million signing from Nottingham Forest, who managed to score despite a scuffed shot. This early goal set off a tense and competitive game under the humid Singapore conditions, with Newcastle demonstrating the physical intensity expected of Eddie Howe’s side.
Arsenal’s response came just after the half-hour mark when Mikel Merino, a pivotal midfielder, collected a ball won from Joe Willock and started a slick move involving Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz. Merino finished the move with a low, first-time shot to equalize, resuscitating Arsenal’s momentum.
The Gunners then pressed their advantage. Key contributions came from young talents like Ethan Nwaneri, who continues to make the transition into a regular first-team player, and new versatile winger Noni Madueke. Arsenal’s possession and creativity increased as they sought to control the game and outmaneuver a resilient Newcastle defense.
The climax of the game came in the 85th minute, when Martin Ødegaard, Arsenal’s captain and midfield maestro, calmly converted a penalty to seal the 3-2 victory. This successful spot-kick underscored Ødegaard’s vital leadership and composure, traits that will be crucial throughout the forthcoming season.
The match also served as a platform for other Arsenal debutants such as Cristhian Mosquera, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, and Christian Nørgaard, showcasing the manager Mikel Arteta’s efforts to blend youth and experience seamlessly. Newcastle, meanwhile, were missing some key players like Alexander Isak but demonstrated a solid squad depth and tactical flexibility under Howe’s coaching.
This pre-season encounter is a significant confidence boost for Arsenal, especially following their opening 1-0 win against AC Milan in Singapore earlier in the week. It confirms their 100% winning record on this Far Eastern tour and sets a positive trajectory as they fine-tune their squad and strategies before the competitive fixtures begin. For Newcastle, while the loss is a setback, the match provided valuable tactical insights and fitness conditioning in an intense local climate.
In conclusion, Arsenal’s 3-2 victory over Newcastle United in Singapore was a compelling display of skill, determination, and strategic planning. The match not only entertained football fans in Singapore but also highlighted Arsenal’s ambitions and readiness for the new Premier League season. As both clubs continue their pre-season tours, the lessons learned and performances displayed here will play a key role in their preparations for the challenges ahead.