Liverpool needed a dramatic 100th-minute strike from 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha to snatch a 3-2 win over Newcastle United, after blowing a two-goal advantage in a pulsating Premier League clash at St. James’ Park on Monday night.
Ryan Gravenberch’s stunning opener and a composed finish from Hugo Ekitike had put the champions in control, with Newcastle reduced to 10 men after Anthony Gordon’s reckless lunge on Virgil van Dijk.
But the Magpies roared back, with Bruno Guimaraes powering home a header before William Osula bundled in an equaliser to send the home crowd into frenzy.
Just when it looked like Eddie Howe’s men would hold on for a battling point, Mohamed Salah’s clever pass and Dominik Szoboszlai’s dummy set up Ngumoha, who coolly curled home the winner — days before his 17th birthday.
The result leaves Liverpool level on six points with Arsenal and Tottenham after two matches, ahead of their blockbuster showdown with the Gunners at Anfield on Sunday.
Newcastle, meanwhile, remain winless this season and face further uncertainty over wantaway striker Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward, who fired them to League Cup glory last season, has yet to feature as transfer speculation continues. Liverpool, who already secured long-time Toon target Ekitike, are believed to have had a £110m bid rejected, with Newcastle demanding a British-record £150m.
Arne Slot’s side may have stolen the headlines through their teenage hero, but Newcastle’s fightback and Liverpool’s defensive frailties ensured this will be remembered as one of the early-season classics.
