Sixteen-year-old Rio Ngumoha etched his name into Premier League history with a dramatic 100th-minute strike as Liverpool defeat Newcastle United 3-2 at St. James’ Park.
The teenage forward, introduced in the 96th minute just four days before his 17th birthday, became Liverpool’s youngest-ever goalscorer and the fourth-youngest in Premier League history.
His last-gasp finish secured all three points for the champions, silencing the home crowd after Newcastle had mounted a remarkable late comeback.
Liverpool appeared to be cruising after first-half goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike, either side of Anthony Gordon’s red card for a reckless challenge on Virgil van Dijk.
But the Magpies roared back in the final minutes through Bruno Guimaraes and William Osula, setting the stage for a dramatic finale.
With Newcastle pushing for a winner, Ngumoha turned the script on its head, capitalising on a late chance to seal a historic moment for the Reds.
“This is also what makes the Premier League special,” said Liverpool boss Arne Slot.
“It may not have been the best game tactically, but every fan around the world enjoyed this football match. And for Rio, what a moment, unforgettable.”
The victory keeps Liverpool level on six points with Tottenham and Arsenal, who they face next at Anfield.
Newcastle, meanwhile, remain winless this season and continue to wrestle with uncertainty over wantaway striker Alexander Isak, as well as the frustration of missing out on long-term target Ekitike, who shone for the visitors.
