Pre-Season: 15-Year-Old Max Dowman Shines as Arsenal Edge Newcastle in Singapore Thriller

Arsenal edged past Newcastle 3-2 in a thrilling pre-season clash at the Singapore National Stadium, with 15-year-old sensation Max Dowman winning a late penalty that captain Martin Ødegaard coolly converted in the 83rd minute to seal the victory.

The Gunners unveiled new £55 million signing Viktor Gyökeres to supporters before kick-off, but it was academy sensation Dowman who lit up the night with a fearless display off the bench — his second senior appearance after impressing against AC Milan last week.

Dowman, introduced just after the hour mark following Jacob Murphy’s thunderous equaliser for Newcastle, made an immediate impact. The teenager threatened twice with powerful runs and stinging shots before embarking on a brilliant solo run that drew a foul from Joelinton — 13 years his senior — to earn Arsenal a late penalty.

Ødegaard coolly converted from the spot to secure the win for Mikel Arteta’s side, capping an entertaining match and another glimpse into Arsenal’s bright future.

“It was a tough game against a tough, physical team, but we got the result we wanted,” Ødegaard said after the match.

“Two wins and it’s been amazing to be out here, with all the love we’ve felt. Hopefully we can beat Tottenham in Hong Kong. Thanks for the support — it’s been special.”

Match Recap: Havertz Creates, Dowman Delivers

Newcastle opened the scoring through Anthony Elanga, who scuffed home his first goal for the club after being left unmarked in the box. Arsenal responded strongly, with two quickfire goals before the break.

Midfielder Mikel Merino finished from close range to level the tie, before a probing Kai Havertz cross forced Alex Murphy into an unfortunate own goal, handing Arsenal a 2-1 lead at the break.

Eddie Howe’s side — missing Alexander Isak — lacked a focal point in attack but found a second equaliser through Murphy’s powerful drive from distance early in the second half.

Despite that, Newcastle rarely threatened as Arsenal controlled possession. The introduction of Dowman added fresh energy and directness, and it was his decisive moment that won the game — drawing the foul that led to Ødegaard’s winner.

Dowman the Headline Act

Still just 15, Dowman’s confidence, maturity, and technical ability continue to attract attention, with fans and pundits alike calling for Arteta to gradually integrate him into the senior setup.

While much of the pre-match spotlight was on the arrival of Gyökeres, the evening belonged to Dowman — the latest in a long line of Hale End talents threatening to break through at Arsenal.

The MVP: Trossard Answers the Call

With the arrival of Noni Madueke casting uncertainty over his long-term role, Leandro Trossard delivered a timely reminder of his versatility and value. Operating off the left and occasionally drifting centrally, the Belgian was a constant presence in Arsenal’s attacking transitions. His intelligent movement and industry were key in the buildup to both goals, as he looked determined to stake a claim ahead of the new season.

New Faces Making Impressions

Martin Zubimendi offered a glimpse of why both Arsenal and Liverpool had tracked him for months. The former Real Sociedad midfielder slotted in seamlessly at the base of midfield, showcasing clean distribution, agility in tight spaces, and the ability to progress the ball with confidence — either through crisp forward passes or well-timed surges.

While he didn’t feature on the pitch, newly signed striker Viktor Gyökeres was presented to the Singapore crowd ahead of kickoff. The £55 million forward is expected to debut during the Gunners’ next fixture.

Kepa Arrizabalaga, introduced in the second half, looked assured with two comfortable saves, while fellow newcomer Christian Nørgaard was handed a brief 15-minute cameo late on, enough to hint at his physical presence and positional discipline.

What’s Next for Arsenal?

Arsenal’s pre-season tour continues with a blockbuster North London Derby against Tottenham in Hong Kong — the first ever to be played outside the UK. That clash will be followed by friendlies against Villarreal and Athletic Club, as Mikel Arteta’s side fine-tunes preparations for their Premier League opener against Manchester United on August 17.