Arsenal vs Newcastle Preview, Prediction and betting odds: 18/5/2025

Arsenal and Newcastle United are preparing for one of the most consequential fixtures of the Premier League season when they meet at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 16:30. With just one point separating the sides heading into Matchday 37, this match could prove decisive in determining final placements in the race for UEFA Champions League qualification.

Arsenal currently sit second with 67 points, narrowly ahead of Newcastle, who are third with 66. Both clubs are still within reach of finishing in the top three, but with just two rounds remaining, a positive result is essential.

Arsenal Overview

Arsenal enter the fixture amid a concerning run of form. The Gunners have failed to win any of their last five matches in all competitions, including a recent 2-2 draw at Anfield against Liverpool. That result further highlighted the pressure facing Mikel Arteta’s side, who were once firmly in control of their top-four destiny.

Despite their recent struggles, Arsenal’s season-long performance has been solid. They’ve recorded 18 wins, 13 draws, and only 4 defeats across the campaign, scoring 64 goals and conceding 31. Their +33 goal difference reflects both offensive effectiveness and defensive structure. On home turf, Arsenal have won 10 of their 18 matches, drawing six and losing only two.

Arteta has deployed a possession-based system throughout the season, often focusing on control through midfield dominance. However, with Champions League football at stake, he may opt for a more pragmatic approach against a Newcastle team that thrives in transition.

Newcastle Overview

Newcastle United arrive in north London in stronger form. Eddie Howe’s side has picked up three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five fixtures, including a notable 2-0 win over Chelsea in their most recent outing. That victory reinforced their credentials as a top-four contender and pushed them to 66 points.

The Magpies have enjoyed an impressive league campaign overall, with 20 wins, 6 draws, and 10 defeats. They have scored 68 goals while conceding 45, giving them a healthy +23 goal differential. Their away performances have also been respectable, with 8 wins from 18 road games.

Howe has instilled a dynamic, pressing style that prioritizes quick attacking transitions. His side often disrupts opponents in midfield and launches rapid counter-attacks, tactics that could prove effective against Arsenal’s possession-oriented strategy.

Previous Meetings and Competitive Context

In their most recent meeting, Newcastle secured a 2-0 victory at St. James’ Park. That result extended their recent dominance in the rivalry, as the Magpies have won four of the last five encounters across all competitions. Arsenal’s only win in that stretch came in 2021, underlining the psychological edge Newcastle may hold heading into Sunday’s contest.

With both teams fighting for a top-three finish, this fixture carries significant weight. Arsenal must respond to their recent form slump, while Newcastle will look to capitalize on their momentum and strong head-to-head record.

Form Comparison and Latest Results

The contrast in form is stark. Arsenal have gone five games without a win, managing two draws and suffering three losses. Newcastle, by contrast, have taken 10 points from their last 15 available, losing just once during that stretch.

In their last outings, Arsenal drew 2-2 away at Liverpool, while Newcastle comfortably dispatched Chelsea 2-0 at home—two results that further illustrate each side’s current trajectory.

Betting Outlook and Odds Overview

Bookmakers narrowly favor Arsenal due to their home record and the high stakes involved. Odds for a home win are priced at 1.92. A draw stands at 3.79, while an away win for Newcastle is offered at 4.18.

The “Both Teams to Score” market is also gaining attention, with odds of 1.65 for “Yes,” reflecting both teams’ prolific attacks. Arsenal have netted 64 goals this season, while Newcastle have outscored them with 68.

For those exploring additional betting opportunities, handicap bets on Arsenal or over 2.5 total goals may offer further value, especially in such a high-pressure, open fixture. Many top betting platforms are also providing welcome bonuses for new users, including free bet incentives on major matchdays like this.

Prediction

Given the stakes and recent performances, this match promises to be tightly contested. Arsenal’s strong home record, combined with the urgency to arrest their form slump, may give them the edge. Newcastle’s high-energy style could create scoring chances, but their defense may come under pressure against a motivated Arsenal front line.

Expect an entertaining match, with chances for both sides and likely goals at each end. However, with Champions League qualification hanging in the balance and the Emirates crowd behind them, Arsenal may just do enough to claim all three points.

Prediction: Arsenal 2–1 Newcastle United