Late Penalty Secures Point
Dominik Szoboszlai’s 99th-minute penalty gave Liverpool a point at St James’ Park. The Hungarian hammered the spot-kick from 12 yards into the top corner after Lewis Hall fouled substitute Victor Munoz. The penalty was the latest in the Premier League since Dirk Kuyt’s 101 minutes 48 seconds strike against Arsenal in 2011, and it came at 98 minutes 6 seconds into the game.
Match Highlights
Newcastle opened the scoring with Anthony Elanga in the 12th minute, followed by a second goal from Joe Willock in the 23rd. Liverpool responded with a 31st-minute equaliser from Cody Gakpo. The hosts pulled level again in the 71st minute, but the hosts’ second goal came in the 78th, giving Newcastle a 2-1 advantage. The late penalty turned the game into a 2-2 draw.
Key Moments and Statistics
Both clubs were under new managers, and the match was played amid tributes to the late Kevin Keegan. Liverpool’s 14th straight opening-day unbeaten run was preserved, the longest active run among Premier League clubs. Opta data shows Liverpool have conceded nine fast-break goals since the start of last season, the highest tally of any side.
Players’ Performances
Newcastle’s Yoane Wissa earned Player of the Match for his work, while Alexander Isak was largely absent, missing a few shots over the bar. Matthias Jaissle praised his team’s effort but admitted the late penalty decision was “soft.” Liverpool’s Andoni Iraola reflected on the point as his first under the new manager.
Conclusion
The 99th-minute penalty was a decisive moment that turned a potential defeat into a point for Liverpool, keeping their opening-day unbeaten streak alive and leaving both clubs with a single point to start the season.
