In an exciting clash at Anfield, Liverpool delivered a spectacular display, defeating Newcastle United 4-1. The local side’s goals came from Hugo Ekitike, who scored twice in the first half (40’ and 42’), followed by Florian Wirtz (66’) and Ibrahima Konaté (92’). Anthony Gordon managed to find the back of the net for Newcastle in the 35th minute of the first half.
Harvey Barnes almost turned the tide for Newcastle with a powerful shot that struck the post at the 25-minute mark.
Hugo Ekitike was undoubtedly the star of the match, netting two goals, taking six shots on target, and completing 17 successful passes.
Defensively, Virgil van Dijk had a significant impact, clearing 13 balls from the danger zone, showcasing his leadership at the back.
Under the management of Arne Slot, Liverpool employed a 4-5-1 formation, featuring Alisson in goal; Dominik Szoboszlai, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez in defense; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, and Cody Gakpo in midfield; with Hugo Ekitike leading the attack.
On the other hand, Newcastle’s Eddie Howe set his team up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Nick Pope guarding the net; Kieran Trippier, Malick Thiaw, Dan Burn, and Lewis Hall in defense; Jacob Ramsey, Sandro Tonali, and Joe Willock in midfield; and a forward line consisting of Anthony Elanga, Anthony Gordon, and Harvey Barnes.
Referee Simon Hooper officiated the match.
As a result of this victory, Liverpool stands at 39 points, placing them fifth in the league table, while Newcastle remains at 33 points, sitting in tenth place.
Substitutions for Liverpool:
83’ – Mohamed Salah off for Federico Chiesa, Hugo Ekitike off for Curtis Jones, Kieran Trippier off for William Osula. 86’ – Florian Wirtz off for Wataru Endo.
Yellow cards for Liverpool:
13’ – Alexis Mac Allister (Unsporting behavior).
Substitutions for Newcastle United:
71’ – Harvey Barnes off for Yoane Wissa, 72’ – Joe Willock off for Nick Woltemade, Anthony Elanga off for Jacob Murphy, 88’ – Lewis Hall off for Alex Murphy.
Yellow cards for Newcastle United:
10’ – Anthony Gordon (Unsporting behavior), 47’ – Jacob Ramsey (Unsporting behavior), 40’ – Dan Burn (Insulting or disapproving the referee).
Looking ahead, Liverpool will host Manchester City next, while Newcastle will face Brentford at St. James Park.