Liverpool opened their 2026/27 Premier League campaign with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Sunday, with Dominik Szoboszlai converting a stoppage-time penalty to rescue a point for the visitors.
Newcastle made the brighter start and took the lead in the fifth minute through Anthony Elanga, who finished a counter-attack to give the hosts an early advantage.
Liverpool controlled much of the possession as they searched for an equalizer, but Newcastle defended their lead to go into the interval 1-0 ahead.
The visitors eventually drew level nine minutes after the restart when Cody Gakpo fired a long-range effort past Newcastle goalkeeper Lukáš Horníček in the 54th minute.
Newcastle responded almost immediately, restoring their advantage in the 57th minute through substitute Joe Willock, who produced a fine strike from distance to make it 2-1.
The Reds increased the pressure as the match entered its closing stages, with manager Andoni Iraola making changes in an attempt to find another equalizer.
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The breakthrough finally came deep into stoppage time. Liverpool was awarded a penalty after Victor Muñoz went down following contact with Newcastle defender Lewis Hall inside the box.
Szoboszlai stepped up in the 99th minute and confidently sent the penalty into the top-left corner, leaving Horníček with no chance and earning the Reds a dramatic 2-2 draw.
The result gave both sides a point on the opening weekend, although Newcastle will feel they came close to securing all three points after twice holding the lead.
The match also marked the beginning of new managerial eras, with Iraola taking charge of Liverpool and Matthias Jaissle leading Newcastle. The encounter was preceded by tributes to former Newcastle and Liverpool great Kevin Keegan.
Liverpool will return to Anfield next Saturday to face Nottingham Forest, while Newcastle are set to play West Bromwich Albion in the EFL Cup on Wednesday.
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