Alexander Isak kept Newcastle United's top-four hopes alive with a late penalty to earn a dramatic 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium. In a match dominated by VAR decisions and missed opportunities, Isak's 89th-minute strike salvaged a point that could prove crucial in Newcastle’s bid for UEFA Champions League qualification.

The game began brightly for the hosts, with Brighton taking the lead in the 28th minute. Former Newcastle winger Yankuba Minteh punished his old side by cutting in from the right and firing a powerful left-footed shot that deflected off Dan Burn and past goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka. The goal gave Brighton the edge going into halftime and left Newcastle frustrated after a sluggish opening 45 minutes.

The second half was riddled with VAR drama. Newcastle were awarded three penalties in a chaotic period of play, but only one ultimately stood. The first call, initially given for a foul on Anthony Gordon, was overturned after replays showed the challenge occurred outside the penalty area. The second penalty was also withdrawn when Joe Willock was adjudged to have simulated contact, resulting in a yellow card for the midfielder.

However, the breakthrough came in the 89th minute. A free-kick delivery from Kieran Trippier struck the arm of Brighton substitute Yasin Ayari inside the box. After another lengthy VAR check, referee Michael Oliver pointed to the spot, and Alexander Isak stepped up to confidently convert, sending Brighton keeper Bart Verbruggen the wrong way. The goal was Isak's 23rd in the Premier League this season, underlining his status as one of the league’s top forwards.

Despite the equalizer, both sides had chances to win it in stoppage time. Brighton’s Diego Gomez narrowly missed the target with a close-range header, while Newcastle's Callum Wilson forced a crucial save from Verbruggen in the dying moments. Ultimately, both teams had to settle for a point in a result that leaves plenty to play for in the final stretch of the season.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe praised his side's determination: “We were the team trying to win the game. I’m proud of how we responded, especially after the first half. It's all to play for—we have three huge games coming up.” Newcastle now sit fourth with 63 points, clinging to Champions League qualification with matches remaining against Chelsea, Everton, and Arsenal.

Brighton, meanwhile, remain in 10th place and still have a shot at qualifying for European competition next season. Manager Fabian Hürzeler reflected on the result, saying, “We can be proud of the performance. Of course, we’re disappointed not to win, but we’ll take the positives.”

The draw also continues Newcastle’s winless run at the Amex Stadium, where they have yet to register a Premier League victory. With the season approaching its climax, both teams face decisive fixtures that could define their campaigns.