Arsenal star Bukayo Saka expressed frustration with a controversial VAR call after his side’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park.
Newcastle took the lead in the 34th minute when Nick Woltemade headed in from a set play. Arsenal eventually pulled level in the 84th minute through Mikel Merino, and then sealed the win with a stoppage-time header from Gabriel Magalhães.
Earlier in the match, Arsenal had been awarded a penalty after a challenge between Newcastle keeper Nick Pope and Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres. However, following a VAR review, the decision was overturned.
Speaking after the game, Saka was emphatic in his criticism of the decision:
“I’m speechless… For me, if we have VAR, it is for clear and obvious error. The fact it took the ref that long to decide shows it’s not a clear error. These little things always go against us, but today we got what we deserved.”
He argued that the length of time it took for the referee to overturn the call underlines that it was not a straightforward or obvious mistake.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta echoed Saka’s sentiment, insisting that “if it is not a clear and obvious error, VAR should not intervene.”
He praised his team’s character and fight, saying the victory was well deserved despite the frustrations.
The win moves Arsenal to second place in the Premier League, trailing Liverpool by just two points.
For Newcastle, manager Eddie Howe lamented his side’s inability to close out the match and conceded that Arsenal’s pressure eventually told. He described the result as heartbreaking to concede at home so late.
