Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-24 22:39:15
Arsenal continued their impressive form in the Premier League with a convincing 4-1 victory over Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium. The win brought them within two points of league leaders Liverpool and marked their sixth consecutive win in the league.
After a disappointing 1-0 loss to Porto in the Champions League, Mikel Arteta’s side bounced back with a strong performance against Newcastle. The Gunners showcased their attacking threat by scoring 25 goals in their last six league games. Arsenal’s first goal came from a set-piece that forced an own goal from Sven Botman, followed by goals from Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Jakub Kiwior from another corner kick.
With their sights set on their first league title in 20 years, Arsenal are eager to redeem themselves after faltering towards the end of last season. Despite their impressive form, they remain in third place, just one point behind second-placed Manchester City. The title race is shaping up to be an exciting battle with only 12 games left in the season.
Newcastle, on the other hand, suffered another setback in their quest for European football next season. Eddie Howe’s team was outplayed and currently sits in eighth place, 15 points behind the top four. They have struggled defensively, conceding 23 goals in their last eight league matches.
Goalkeeper Loris Karius made just his second appearance for Newcastle since joining the club in 2022. Although he was unfortunate for Arsenal’s opening goal, Karius was unable to prevent the Gunners from adding to their lead. Arsenal’s second goal, scored by Havertz, was a beautifully crafted team move that showcased their attacking quality.
Arsenal’s dominance from set-pieces was once again on display, with Kiwior’s goal coming from a corner kick delivered by Declan Rice. The Gunners have been lethal from dead-ball situations this season, scoring 19 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League.
Newcastle managed to pull one back through Joe Willock late in the game, but it was not enough to dampen Arsenal’s spirits. The Gunners made a strong statement to Liverpool and Manchester City that they are ready to compete for the title this season and will not falter like they did in the previous campaign.
Overall, Arsenal’s impressive performance against Newcastle solidified their status as serious contenders for the Premier League title with their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. The Gunners will be looking to maintain their momentum in the coming weeks as they aim to challenge Liverpool and Manchester City for the top spot in the league.
