New Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres was introduced to fans in Singapore, while 15-year-old Max Dowman once again impressed as the Gunners secured a 3-2 victory over Newcastle in a pre-season match.
Gyokeres finalized his £64 million transfer to Arsenal from Sporting on Saturday and greeted fans from the pitch before the match began.
However, Arsenal supporters at the National Stadium had little time to savor the moment as Anthony Elanga scored his first goal for Newcastle with a scrappy effort following a pass from Sandro Tonali in the sixth minute.
Arsenal had opportunities through Kai Havertz and Ben White, eventually equalizing when Mikel Merino scored from a clever Havertz flick in the 33rd minute.
Just two minutes later, Arsenal took the lead when Havertz's low cross was inadvertently turned into the net by Newcastle's left-back Alex Murphy.
Newcastle made nine substitutions at halftime, and Arsenal nearly extended their lead when Nick Pope made a fine save from an acrobatic attempt by Bukayo Saka.
One of those nine substitutes, Jacob Murphy, then brought Newcastle level by scoring from the edge of the area, with the ball slipping past David Raya.
Arteta introduced the highly regarded 15-year-old Dowman, who won a penalty after a skillful run. Captain Martin Odegaard converted the spot-kick, securing the win for Arsenal.
Arsenal is set to travel to Hong Kong next week to face rivals Tottenham Hotspur, while Newcastle will take on Team K League in South Korea.
Gyokeres Steals the Show
Gyokeres' arrival in Singapore was the highlight of the day, overshadowing the pre-season friendly. Fans in the stadium emulated the Swedish striker's signature celebration, and the atmosphere intensified when he was welcomed onto the pitch amidst flames.
The 27-year-old forward, who has yet to train with his new teammates, came directly from the airport to meet the crowd. While Germany forward Havertz has led the line well for Arsenal in recent seasons, Gyokeres is the traditional center-forward Arsenal fans have been longing for.
The only concern for Arteta from the match was Riccardo Calafiori limping off just two minutes into the second half, being replaced by Jakub Kiwior.
Howe Pushes Newcastle On
Similar to Arsenal, discussions around a Swedish striker have been a focal point for Newcastle during their time in Singapore. Alexander Isak is contemplating his options amid interest from Liverpool, and manager Eddie Howe has faced numerous questions about the striker's future.
Howe stated that the club aims to make moves in the transfer window while ensuring any decision regarding Isak's future is beneficial for Newcastle.
Another Swede, Elanga, one of Newcastle's few summer signings, scored his first goal for the club and was a standout performer in attack alongside William Osula.
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