Arsenal’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League were dealt a massive blow as they went down 2-0 to Newcastle United at St. James Park on Monday night. Despite last week’s 3-0 loss to Tottenham in the North London derby, the Gunners still had CL qualification in their own hands going into this game, but turned an insipid performance against the Magpies.
The hosts took the lead ten minutes after the interval when Ben White put one into his own net, and sealed victory through Bruno Guimaraes in the 85th minute. They were dominant throughout the game and could’ve won by more, while Arsenal barely troubled Martin Dubravka in the NUFC goal.
The result now sees Arsenal fall two points behind Spurs with a game to play, and the Gunners must now beat Everton on the final day of the season and hope that already-relegated Norwich City can spring a surprise against Antonio Conte’s men. Spurs’ goal difference (+24 to Arsenal’s +9) also means a draw will do just fine for the Lilywhites to seal fourth spot.
Arsenal last featured in the Champions League back in the 2016/17 season. They didn’t play in any European competition this season, having finished a lowly 8th in 20/21.
