Arsenal FC returned to the top of the Premier League table on Saturday with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium.

The decisive moment came early in the first half, as Eberechi Eze struck in the ninth minute with a superb curling effort that ultimately proved the difference between the two sides.

The win lifts Mikel Arteta’s side to 73 points, three clear of Manchester City, who still have a game in hand due to their FA Cup commitments.

Arsenal’s opener came from a well-executed set-piece routine, underlining their growing threat from dead-ball situations this season. Eze, positioned just outside the penalty area, latched onto a short corner and curled a precise shot into the top corner beyond goalkeeper Nick Pope.

The goal also saw Arsenal set a new league record for the most goals scored from corners in a single campaign.

Despite taking an early lead, the hosts were made to work for the result as Newcastle pushed for an equaliser. Goalkeeper David Raya produced a key save before halftime to deny a long-range effort from Sandro Tonali.

Newcastle came close again late on, with substitute Yoane Wissa seeing an acrobatic attempt narrowly miss the target, as the visitors searched for a late breakthrough.

However, the victory was tempered by injury concerns for Arsenal. Both Kai Havertz and match-winner Eze were forced off during the game, leaving Arteta awaiting further medical assessments.

Speaking after the match, Arteta admitted concern over the duo’s fitness but praised his team’s resilience in securing all three points.

The result increases pressure on Manchester City in the title race, while Newcastle’s struggles continue, with the defeat marking another setback in a difficult run of form under manager Eddie Howe.

Arsenal now face a decisive stretch in the season as they pursue what would be their first league title in over two decades.