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Sandro Tonali’s sensational goal secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory for Newcastle against Brentford, boosting their Champions League qualification hopes.
Alexander Isak continued his impressive form, becoming the first player to score 20+ Premier League goals for the Magpies in consecutive seasons. However, Tonali’s spectacular winner stole the spotlight.
Newcastle, playing their first game since their Carabao Cup final triumph over Liverpool, started brightly. Isak threatened early, but it was Brentford who nearly capitalized.
Isak opened the scoring for Newcastle in first-half stoppage time, tapping in Murphy’s cross at the far post.
Brentford equalized in the 66th minute through Bryan Mbeumo’s penalty, following a foul by Pope.
Tonali then scored the decisive goal in the 74th minute with a stunning strike from a tight angle, sending the St. James’ Park crowd into a frenzy.
Newcastle held on to win, moving into fifth place in the league standings.
