Football fans across the world — and here in Kenya — witnessed pure drama at St James’ Park, where 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha etched his name into Liverpool history with a 100th-minute winner against 10-man Newcastle United. The Reds’ dramatic 3-2 victory kept their unbeaten scoring run alive and extended Newcastle’s misery in this fixture to 18 league games without a win (D5, L13).
Pre-Match Tension: The Isak Transfer Saga Looms Large
Heading into the clash, much of the pre-match conversation revolved around Alexander Isak’s transfer saga, despite his absence from the squad. Newcastle fans, eager for clarity and stability, rallied behind manager Eddie Howe as the atmosphere inside St James’ Park reached fever pitch before kick-off.
Both sides showed their intent early, with Ryan Gravenberch — back from suspension — picking up a booking amid a flurry of challenges. While Newcastle pressed forward, it was Liverpool’s Florian Wirtz who forced the first save from Nick Pope, reminding the Magpies of the threat they faced.
Gravenberch and Gordon Light Up a Fiery First Half
The match saw end-to-end action, with Anthony Gordon spurning three consecutive chances that could have tilted the tie in Newcastle’s favour. However, Liverpool struck first when Gravenberch unleashed a stunning 30-yard strike, nestling the ball into the bottom corner.
Things went from bad to worse for Newcastle on the stroke of halftime. A reckless sliding challenge from Gordon on Virgil van Dijk was reviewed by VAR, resulting in a straight red card. Down to ten men, Newcastle’s hopes of a comeback looked slim.
Ekitike Scores Again but Newcastle Show Spirit
Just 20 seconds into the second half, Liverpool doubled their lead. Cody Gakpo’s blocked shot rebounded kindly, and Hugo Ekitike converted with finesse — his third goal in as many games.
Yet, Newcastle refused to crumble. A pinpoint cross from Tino Livramento was met by Bruno Guimarães, who rose high to head home and halve the deficit. The Magpies continued to push, and in the 88th minute, their persistence paid off. A long ball from Pope caused chaos, and William Osula capitalized with a neat finish to level the game at 2-2.
Ngumoha’s Magical Moment
When it seemed Newcastle had secured a point, Liverpool’s Arne Slot turned to youth. Enter Rio Ngumoha, the 16-year-old prodigy. In the 100th minute, he met Mohamed Salah’s low cross, curling a composed finish into the corner to seal a breathtaking 3-2 victory.
For Liverpool, the moment was about more than just three points — it was the rise of a new star. For Newcastle, it was another painful reminder of their struggles against the Reds.
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Final Word
The Liverpool vs Newcastle showdown had it all: controversy, brilliance, resilience, and a teenage match-winner who stunned the footballing world. For fans in Kenya and beyond, Rio Ngumoha’s moment of magic is one for the ages — and perhaps the start of a glittering career.
Liverpool 3-2 Newcastle. A match to remember.
