Arne Slot survived his first real test of the 2025/26 Premier League season as Liverpool won 3-2 away at Newcastle United.
The Magpies dominated the Premier League champions throughout the opening exchanges at St James’ Park until Ryan Gravenberch’s stunning long-range strike in the 35th minute gave Liverpool the lead.
Hugo Ekitike was subject to boos from the home support after the Frenchman rejected Newcastle in favour of a move to Anfield this summer, and of course, he was on hand to double the Reds’ lead in the second half.
Bruno Guimaraes halved the deficit in the 57th minute for Newcastle before William Osula completed a sensational turnaround in the 88th minute in the North East following Anthony Gordon receiving his marching orders in first-half stoppage time for a dangerous foul on Virgil van Dijk.
Newcastle United v Liverpool - Premier League
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However, up stepped Rio Ngumoha for Liverpool to secure the three points at St James’ Park, and here are three things Slot got absolutely right on the night.
Dominik Szoboszlai excelled at right-back for Liverpool
Dominik Szoboszlai was forced to play out of position for the Reds as the Hungarian slotted in at right-back with Jeremie Frimpong missing through injury.
Curtis Jones retained his place in midfield, and although the Scouser has operated as a full-back for Liverpool in the past, Slot saw it better suited for Szoboszlai to slot into defence.
Liverpool v Athletic Club Bilbao - Pre-Season Friendly
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And what a decision that turned out to be, the 24-year-old was sensational at both ends of the pitch for the Reds and could very well be called upon again when his side host Arsenal at Anfield next.
Liverpool did not let off after Anthony Gordon’s red card
Newcastle were certainly feeding into the volatile atmosphere at St James’ Park as the Liverpool players found themselves on the wrong end of some rough challenges.
However, once Gordon received his red card, the momentum shifted in the North East, and the Reds made sure not to let up on the hosts while holding the one-man advantage.
Ekitike scored less than two minutes into the second half, and although Newcastle levelled the fixture, the football on display at Anfield will be entertaining to say the least.
Rio Ngumoha wins the game for Liverpool
Rio Ngumoha enjoyed an impressive pre-season campaign for the Reds, and what a way for the player to announce himself to the Premier League.
The 16-year-old is dubbed a Premier League wonderkid following his promotion to the first team this season, and now it is hard to argue that Ngumoha is not one of the most exciting young talents in English football.
Newcastle United v Liverpool - Premier League
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Slot called upon Federico Chiesa to make the difference against Bournemouth on the opening day, and now, it’s Ngumoha’s moment.