Eddie Howe says Arsenal player did something ‘spectacular’ against his Newcastle side in 1-0 win

Arsenal secured a narrow but vital 1-0 victory over Newcastle United on Sunday, successfully holding their position in the Premier League standings and preventing the Magpies from overtaking them in the race for second place.

The decisive moment came from Declan Rice, whose stunning goal not only sealed the win but also ensured Arsenal’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League for a third consecutive season. Newcastle, on the other hand, will now have to wait until the final day of the campaign to find out which European competition they’ll be participating in next year.

Despite the loss, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe remained gracious in defeat. His post-match comments reflected a deep respect for the quality Arsenal brought to the game, particularly in praising the impact and execution of Rice’s match-winning strike.

Howe acknowledged that the second half presented significant pressure from the home side and admitted that his team struggled to manage that intensity for a period. Rice’s goal, which came in the 55th minute, was described by Howe as a “spectacular finish,” a sentiment few would argue against given the technique and composure involved in the shot that beat Nick Pope.

In the first half, Newcastle held their own and arguably looked the better side for stretches. They managed to create opportunities and maintained control in key areas of the pitch, limiting Arsenal’s ability to break through.

Pope was largely untroubled during those opening 45 minutes, a testament to the defensive structure Howe had implemented. However, that early dominance began to fade after the interval.

Arsenal emerged with renewed energy, applying sustained pressure that eventually cracked Newcastle’s resistance. Howe later admitted that his side became a bit too passive, allowing Arsenal to dictate play and capitalize on the momentum shift.

What makes Rice’s goal all the more impactful is the context in which it occurred. A slip-up for Arsenal at this stage of the season would have opened the door to potentially dropping into the Europa League.

With so much at stake, the onus was on key players to deliver. Rice, once a West Ham prodigy and now a commanding presence in Arsenal’s midfield, rose to the occasion with the kind of moment that defines seasons and reputations alike.

His transition to life at the Emirates has been seamless, and performances like this underline why Arsenal were willing to break their transfer record to bring him in.

For Newcastle, the defeat was a setback, but far from a collapse. Their trajectory this season remains positive, and they remain well-positioned to secure European football of some sort. Yet, the match also served as a reminder of the fine margins that separate elite teams in the Premier League.

One lapse in focus, one moment of brilliance, and the narrative can shift instantly. While Newcastle didn’t lack effort or tactical discipline, they simply encountered a side that was able to seize their opportunity when it mattered most.

Interestingly, Newcastle had shown interest in signing Declan Rice last summer before his big-money move to Arsenal. Eddie Howe had hoped to make the England international a cornerstone of Newcastle’s midfield rebuild.

However, the club hesitated to break the £100 million threshold or offer wages exceeding £200,000 per week. Those financial limitations, understandable given the club’s more measured approach to growth, led them to pursue alternative targets. That path eventually brought Sandro Tonali to Tyneside in a £55 million deal from AC Milan.

While Rice has proven his value in North London, Tonali has also shown flashes of brilliance since arriving in England. The Italian has adapted quickly to the Premier League and brought a different style of control and creativity to Newcastle’s midfield.

Both clubs, then, can feel satisfied with how their respective choices have shaped their seasons. Rice and Tonali, although contrasting in playstyle, are each pivotal figures who elevate their sides’ midfield capabilities.

With just one game remaining, the pressure is on Newcastle to finish strong and secure their place in European competition. The defeat at Arsenal may sting, especially knowing how close they came to snatching a result, but the broader picture remains encouraging.

The team has demonstrated growth, resilience, and a strong foundation on which to build. Howe’s reaction to the defeat, full of composure and reflection, mirrors the professionalism with which he has managed the club throughout the campaign.

The focus now shifts to the final matchday, where Newcastle will aim to end the season on a high note. As for Arsenal, Rice’s heroics have kept them firmly in contention, and their Champions League ticket is now confirmed.

One goal, one game, and one superstar performance made all the difference in a tightly contested battle that showcased the best of Premier League drama.