Ekitiké's Double Sparks Dramatic Liverpool Turnaround Against Newcastle
Hugo Ekitiké delivered a match-winning performance for Liverpool, scoring twice to ignite a thrilling comeback against Newcastle United at Anfield. The French striker, who Newcastle had agreed a deal to sign last summer before Liverpool intervened, proved pivotal as Arne Slot's side secured a 4-1 victory that showcased their growing consistency.
Newcastle's Early Dominance Overturned by Swift Liverpool Response
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe implemented a game-plan designed to exploit Liverpool with rapid counterattacks, fielding a forward line of Anthony Gordon, Anthony Elanga, and Harvey Barnes. The strategy initially paid dividends as the visitors controlled proceedings, with Gordon opening the scoring after twelve months without a Premier League goal from open play. Newcastle's pace and organisation frustrated Liverpool for much of the first half, with Barnes even hitting the post from a free-kick.
However, the match transformed completely within two minutes as Ekitiké announced his arrival. First, he tapped home from close range after Florian Wirtz's excellent solo run and pass, capitalising on growing understanding between the two attackers. Then, just moments later, Ekitiké collected the ball on the left, drove forward unchallenged by defender Malick Thiaw, and fired expertly into the far corner for his tenth league goal of the season.
Emotional Moment for Konaté as Liverpool Seal Important Win
Liverpool emerged after half-time with renewed confidence, seizing control of the midfield and exploiting Newcastle's defensive lapses. Wirtz extended the lead with a clinical finish after a poor clearance from Thiaw, demonstrating his technical quality in the final third. The victory was sealed in stoppage time when Ibrahima Konaté, playing his first match since the death of his father, pounced on a Nick Pope error from a corner to score, prompting emotional scenes as the defender was visibly moved by the moment.
The result continues Newcastle's long wait for a win at Anfield, with their last victory dating back to 1994. For Liverpool, the performance represents a significant step forward, recording back-to-back impressive wins and reaching one hundred goals at Anfield under Slot in just forty-six games. Ekitiké's contribution, following his £69 million move from Eintracht Frankfurt, is proving increasingly valuable as Liverpool build momentum in the Premier League campaign.
