Liverpool manager Arne Slot admitted he was “not too sure he saw a football match” after his team secured a 3-2 win at St James’ Park. The Reds’ 16-year-old forward, Rio Ngumoha, scored a stunning 100th-minute winner in a match full of twists and tension. Newcastle battled back from 2-0 down despite playing with 10 men.
a chaotic match with minimal ball time
Statistics from Opta show the ball was in play for only 40.8% of the game, marking the lowest percentage in a Premier League match since February 2010. Slot told Sky Sports that the match felt unusual. He said it was dominated by set-pieces and long throws rather than tactical play, though he praised his team’s resilience. “I liked a lot how we stood strong,” he said.
tension fueled by transfer speculation
The game unfolded amid speculation over Alexander Isak’s desire to move to Liverpool, creating a charged atmosphere in the stadium. Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon received a red card for a reckless challenge on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk just before half-time. The match featured 32 fouls, the most in a Premier League game this season.
Slot reflected on the challenge his team faced. “It was a very difficult first half hour, 45 minutes. We didn’t collapse at all and went 1-0 up,” he said. He explained that Newcastle’s red card should have helped, but when the goalkeeper took every free-kick, having one extra player offered little advantage. “That’s why it was so difficult to bring the 2-0 over the line,” he added.
Gordon apologises for red card
England forward Gordon expressed regret for his dismissal, insisting his “intentions were pure.” On social media, the 24-year-old explained that he tried to inject energy into the match and mistimed the tackle. He apologised directly to van Dijk, noting their post-match conversation. Gordon also praised the club and supporters. “I love everything we stand for as a club and no more than right now. I’ll be back and better, the same as every other setback I’ve faced,” he said.
