Newcastle 2-2 Liverpool: Szoboszlai Rescues Reds Late 

Dominik Szoboszlai scored a 99th-minute penalty as Liverpool recovered twice to draw 2-2 with Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

Liverpool avoided an opening-day defeat as Dominik Szoboszlai’s last-gasp penalty secured a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Sunday, 23 August 2026.

Anthony Elanga gave Newcastle an early lead before Cody Gakpo equalised after the interval. Joe Willock restored the hosts’ advantage, but Szoboszlai struck with virtually the final kick after Lewis Hall fouled substitute Víctor Muñoz.

Newcastle vs Liverpool Match Facts

Elanga Gives Newcastle a Flying Start

Newcastle entered the contest determined to make a positive beginning under head coach Matthias Jaissle. Their intensity immediately unsettled Liverpool, and Elanga opened the scoring after only five minutes.

The winger’s speed exposed Liverpool’s defensive positioning and rewarded Newcastle’s aggressive pressing. Although the visitors recorded more attempts during the first half, their possession rarely troubled goalkeeper Dominik Horníček.

Newcastle United and Liverpool players battle for possession during a Premier League clash. Photo credit: Getty Images

Gakpo Equalises Before Willock Responds

Liverpool returned with greater urgency and equalised in the 54th minute. Gakpo moved inside from the left, found space between Newcastle’s midfield and defence and drove a composed finish into the far corner.

Newcastle’s response arrived just 176 seconds later. Yoane Wissa escaped pressure around halfway and released substitute Willock, who cut inside and curled a superb 20-yard effort beyond Alisson. Willock had entered the match only a minute earlier.

The Guardian’s Newcastle-Liverpool live report described Wissa as one of the game’s most influential players. He linked attacks intelligently and repeatedly troubled Liverpool during transitions.

Missed Chances Keep Liverpool Alive

Newcastle created opportunities to settle the contest. Wissa failed to connect with Hall’s dangerous cross before being denied by Alisson when clean through in the 86th minute.

Liverpool continued pushing, although Newcastle’s defensive organisation appeared strong enough to secure victory.

The decisive incident came in stoppage time. Hall’s tired challenge brought down Muñoz inside the area, and referee Stuart Attwell awarded Liverpool a penalty. Szoboszlai remained composed despite the noise and delay, powering his spot-kick into the top corner in the 99th minute.

Joe Willock drives forward for Newcastle United during a Premier League clash with Liverpool. Courtesy picture(Profimedia)

What the Draw Means for Both Clubs

Liverpool demonstrated resilience under Andoni Iraola, but their disjointed attack and vulnerability against fast transitions require attention. Recovering twice away provides encouragement, although title contenders cannot regularly depend on late interventions.

For Newcastle, the display offered evidence that Jaissle’s methods can succeed. Their pressing and counterattacking speed troubled Liverpool, but missed chances and Hall’s error turned victory into one point.

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What to Take Home

Newcastle produced the stronger tactical display but failed to convert their late opportunities. Liverpool were below their best, yet their substitutes created renewed energy and Szoboszlai delivered under extreme pressure.

The 2-2 draw gives both teams a point and several lessons. Newcastle can compete effectively through disciplined pressing and rapid transitions, while Liverpool must improve their balance, creativity and defensive control. Most importantly, the match demonstrated that Premier League contests remain undecided until the final whistle.