Ekitike Delivers Masterclass Against Magpies in Anfield Thriller
Hugo Ekitike delivered a stunning performance to remind Newcastle United of the transfer that got away, scoring a decisive brace in Liverpool's emphatic 4-1 Premier League victory. The win marks Liverpool's first league triumph of 2026, a result that lifts them to fifth position in the fiercely competitive top-flight standings.
Summer Target Comes Back to Haunt Newcastle
The French international striker, who had also found the net at St James' Park earlier in the season, was Newcastle's primary transfer target during the summer window. However, in a significant coup, the defending champions Liverpool swooped in to secure his signature, leaving the Magpies empty-handed. To compound Newcastle's frustration, Liverpool also completed the British record transfer of Alexander Isak from Tyneside, though the Swedish forward remains sidelined with a broken leg.
Ekitike took full advantage of the opportunity, increasing his seasonal tally to fifteen goals and reaching double figures in the Premier League. His clinical finishing was instrumental as Liverpool recovered from a deficit in a chaotic first half that evoked memories of the famous encounters between these two clubs during the mid-1990s.
Wirtz Shines and Emotional Konate Moment
While early comparisons to Fernando Torres may be premature, Ekitike's second goal showcased a finish reminiscent of the former Spanish star who was adored at Anfield. Another summer signing, Florian Wirtz, also impressed with his quick feet, providing the assist for Ekitike's opener before adding Liverpool's crucial third goal himself.
The match concluded with an emotional moment as Ibrahima Konate, making his first appearance since the passing of his father, scored in added time. The defender's tearful celebration provided a poignant end to an eventful evening at Anfield.
Newcastle's Physical Approach Falters
Newcastle, missing the creative influence of the injured Bruno Guimaraes, adopted a physically intimidating strategy from the outset. Anthony Gordon received a booking for a late challenge on goalkeeper Alisson Becker, having earlier clattered into Alexis Mac Allister. This aggressive approach persisted throughout the match but yielded diminishing returns as Liverpool's quality ultimately prevailed.
After Mohamed Salah squandered a clear opportunity created by Dominik Szoboszlai, the final twenty minutes of the first half became increasingly open. This transitional style suited Newcastle's counter-attacking plan, allowing Gordon to fire a shot through Milos Kerkez's legs and across Alisson into the net to give the visitors the lead.
Liverpool's Swift Response and Control
Liverpool responded within five minutes as Wirtz's dazzling footwork bypassed three defenders, leaving Kieran Trippier on the ground, before Ekitike stabbed the ball past Nick Pope. The French striker then produced an even better finish, skipping past Malick Thiaw with ease before beating Pope with the outside of his right foot, prompting a celebratory fist pump from manager Arne Slot in his technical area.
Although Ekitike forced an error from Dan Burn early in the second half, he screwed his shot wide with only Pope to beat. Liverpool maintained control despite occasional threats, with Alisson making a low save from Harvey Barnes before the offside flag was raised. The hosts secured the points when Wirtz exchanged passes with Salah before tucking the ball in off the inside of the post, and though Salah's decision-making in front of goal remained questionable, Konate made no mistake from close range to complete the scoring.
