Ngumoha Weaves Stunning Magic as Liverpool Edges Newcastle in Thrilling 3-2 Comeback

Liverpool secured a thrilling victory at St. James' Park, claiming all three points in a spectacular 3-2 triumph over Newcastle United that will be remembered as one of the most captivating matches supporters have witnessed.

The atmosphere was electric from kickoff, heightened by the ongoing transfer speculation surrounding Alexander Isak involving both clubs. Liverpool were without Jeremie Frimpong and Alexis Mac Allister, with Arne Slot making the surprising decision to deploy Dominik Szoboszlai as a replacement for the absent player.

The Magpies created several set-piece situations in dangerous areas but couldn't genuinely test Liverpool's goalkeeper. The opening 25 minutes featured fifteen infractions and two bookings, highlighting the intense physical battle unfolding. Newcastle's prime opportunity arrived in the 28th minute when Harvey Barnes delivered a menacing cross that Anthony Gordon met with his head, only to see his effort sail above the crossbar.

Liverpool found it challenging to establish sustained possession after half an hour and appeared to be trailing the pace of their hosts. However, the visitors broke the deadlock unexpectedly through Ryan Gravenberch's return to the starting lineup. The Netherlands international stunned Nick Pope with a powerful long-distance strike that nestled inside the far post.

Tensions escalated once more before halftime when referee Simon Hooper was called to review Anthony Gordon's tackle on Virgil van Dijk via VAR. After initially brandishing a yellow card, Hooper reversed his decision and dismissed Gordon for dangerous play. This represented a disappointing conclusion to the half for Newcastle, who had dominated early proceedings, while providing Liverpool with renewed confidence heading into the break.

Within 30 seconds of the second half restart, Hugo Ekitiké extended Liverpool's advantage against the ten-man opposition. His precise finish mirrored Gravenberch's opener as it found the inside of the post. A collision between the French striker and Sandro Tonali temporarily stopped play as Tonali appeared to sustain a left shoulder problem.

Bruno Guimarães pulled the hosts back into contention with a powerful header that defeated Alisson. Tino Livramento provided the cross while Milos Kerkez struggled defensively against the Brazilian midfielder.

Additional injuries to Joelinton and Fabian Schär caused further delays, but Newcastle maintained their momentum. Substitute William Osula found the equalizer much to Liverpool fans' dismay, with the 22-year-old celebrating with what appeared to be John Cena's signature 'U Can't See Me' gesture. However, 11 minutes of added time still remained.

Just when it seemed Liverpool would surrender valuable points, another unexpected hero emerged. Rio Ngumoha, aged just 16, netted the decisive goal to secure all three points for the visitors.

More precisely, at 16 years and 361 days old, Ngumoha was merely one day older than Premier League icon Wayne Rooney when he scored his maiden goal.

Ultimately, six points from two matches as attention turns to hosting Arsenal at Anfield next week. Slot will be concerned about his team surrendering two-goal advantages in consecutive fixtures, though this squad continues to demonstrate the resilient mentality that drove them to championship glory last season.

Liverpool player ratings from the match below.

Liverpool Player Ratings vs. Newcastle (4-2-3-1)

Ratings Provided by FotMob

Subs not used: Giorgi Mamardashvili (GK), Andrew Robertson, Giovanni Leoni, Joe Gomez

Player of the Match: Cody Gakpo

Newcastle United (4-3-3): Nick Pope; Tino Livramento, Dan Burn; Fabian Schär, Kieran Trippier; Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimarães; Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon, Anthony Elanga

Subs: Aaron Ramsdale, Lewis Hall, Malick Thiaw, Sven Botman, Joe Willock, Lewis Miley, Jacob Murphy, Jacob Ramsey, William Osula