Sixteen-year-old Rio Ngumoha stole the spotlight on Monday night, firing a sensational 100th-minute winner as Liverpool edged Newcastle United 3-2 in a thrilling Premier League clash at St James’ Park.
The teenager came off the bench to deliver a moment of magic deep into stoppage time, clinching all three points for Arne Slot’s side in a match packed with intensity, controversy, and late drama.
Liverpool had taken control in the first half, opening the scoring in the 35th minute through Ryan Gravenberch, whose thunderous strike from distance left Nick Pope with no chance. Seconds after the restart, Hugo Ekitike made it 2-0 with a cool finish following a slick counterattack.
Newcastle’s hopes took a major blow just before half-time when Anthony Gordon was shown a red card after a VAR review for a reckless challenge on Virgil van Dijk.
Down to 10 men, the hosts showed impressive resilience. Bruno Guimarães pulled one back with a towering header in the 57th minute, and substitute William Osula brought the home crowd to life by equalising in the 88th minute.
But Liverpool had one final twist to deliver. In the dying moments, Mohamed Salah picked out Ngumoha with a perfectly weighted pass. The youngster kept his nerve, calmly slotting past Pope to become the youngest goalscorer in Liverpool’s storied history.
The defeat will sting for Eddie Howe’s men, who fought bravely despite the numerical disadvantage. For Liverpool, it’s another statement win as they continue their strong start under Slot’s leadership.
