In a pulsating Premier League clash under the lights at St. James’ Park, Liverpool snatched a dramatic 3-2 victory over Newcastle United thanks to a 100th-minute winner from 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha.
Newcastle started brightly, dominating possession and pressing high, but it was Liverpool who struck first. Against the run of play, Ryan Gravenberch opened the scoring in the 35th minute with a long-range effort that deflected off Fabian Schär and wrong-footed Nick Pope.
The game’s turning point came in first-half stoppage time when Anthony Gordon was sent off for a reckless challenge on Virgil van Dijk. Referee Simon Hooper, using VAR and ref cam, deemed the tackle serious foul play.
Liverpool wasted no time capitalizing on their numerical advantage. Just 23 seconds into the second half, Hugo Ekitike—ironically a former Newcastle target—doubled the lead with a composed finish from Cody Gakpo’s assist.
Despite being down to ten men, Newcastle showed resilience. Bruno Guimarães headed home from a Tino Livramento cross in the 57th minute to reduce the deficit
Then, in the 88th minute, substitute Will Osula latched onto a long ball and coolly slotted past Alisson to level the match.
Just as Newcastle looked set to earn a hard-fought point, Liverpool’s teenage sensation Rio Ngumoha delivered a moment of brilliance. In the 100th minute, Mohamed Salah’s pass was dummied by Dominik Szoboszlai, leaving Ngumoha unmarked to curl a stunning shot into the far corner. It was a fairy-tale finish for the youngster, just days before his 17th birthday.
Post-Match Reactions
Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised Ngumoha’s composure:
“It was a great goal for a 16-year-old. He’s a confident finisher and it’s not a coincidence he scored tonight”
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe lamented the result and the growing injury list, with Fabian Schär, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton all picking up knocks. He also defended Gordon’s red card, suggesting there was no intent in the challenge.
Key Match Stats
- Goals: Gravenberch (35′), Ekitike (46′), Ngumoha (90+10′) | Guimarães (57′), Osula (88′)
- Red Card: Anthony Gordon (45+3′)
- Possession: Newcastle dominated early but Liverpool capitalized on key moments.
- Injuries: Newcastle lost three key players, adding to their woes.