Arsenal Beat Newcastle to Return to the Top

Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League with a narrow victory over Newcastle United, as Eberechi Eze’s first-half goal proved decisive in a hard-fought encounter at the Emirates Stadium.

Mikel Arteta’s side had slipped to second place for the first time since October following Manchester City’s midweek win over Burnley, which briefly sent City top on goal difference.

Arsenal made a strong start and took the lead in the ninth minute through Eze after a cleverly executed short corner. Kai Havertz laid the ball off to the England international on the edge of the box, and he responded with a superb curling effort into the top corner.

Newcastle threatened in the first half, with William Osula, Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali all going close, but the visitors were unable to find an equaliser before the break.

After halftime, manager Eddie Howe introduced Yoane Wissa and Harvey Barnes in a bid to spark a comeback. Wissa came closest late on but squandered a golden opportunity, as Newcastle slumped to a fourth consecutive league defeat.

The result moves Arsenal three points clear at the top of the table, although they have played one game more than their title rivals, Manchester City.

The only concern for the Gunners was injury setbacks, with both Havertz and Eze forced off before the final whistle.