LONDON (Interstat) — Eberechi Eze’s ninth-minute goal was the difference as Arsenal defeated Newcastle United 1-0 on Saturday at Emirates Stadium in a Premier League opener.

Arsenal, now 1-0 in league play and across all competitions, controlled possession early and struck quickly. Eze slotted home from close range after a well-worked move. Newcastle, which fell to 0-1 in both league and overall records, struggled to generate clear chances.

The match’s four yellow cards included Dan Burn in the 57th minute, Gabriel Martinelli in the 71st, Nick Pope in the 74th and Declan Rice in the 86th. Despite late pressure from the visitors, Arsenal’s defense held firm.

The result gave Arsenal a winning start to the season under the Emirates lights in Islington. Newcastle was unable to find an equalizer after falling behind in the opening stages.