Liverpool’s new Premier League era under Andoni Iraola began with plenty of drama, but certainly not the comfortable start many supporters were hoping for.
The Reds were forced to fight until the very last kick at St James’ Park before Dominik Szoboszlai’s 99th-minute penalty rescued a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United. (Liverpool FC)
It was a chaotic afternoon packed with momentum swings, defensive mistakes, missed chances and late drama. Newcastle twice took the lead, Liverpool twice fought back, and the eventual point felt more like a rescue mission than a statement of intent. 😮💨⚽
⭐ Cody Gakpo was Liverpool’s biggest attacking threat
If there was one Liverpool attacker who consistently looked capable of making something happen, it was Cody Gakpo.
The Dutchman eventually produced a moment of genuine quality, cutting inside and firing a superb effort into the bottom corner from distance to bring Liverpool level at 1-1. (This Is Anfield)
Gakpo continued to look dangerous afterwards and nearly grabbed another goal, although Newcastle’s defenders managed to deny him.
His performance was particularly impressive considering Liverpool’s overall attacking struggles.
While others struggled to find space or influence the contest, Gakpo repeatedly tried to take responsibility. 🔥🇳🇱
🥶 Alexander Isak’s emotional return turns into a nightmare
All eyes were understandably on Alexander Isak.
The Swedish striker was returning to St James’ Park after his controversial £125 million move to Liverpool, and the Newcastle supporters made their feelings very clear. The reception was hostile, emotional and relentless. 😳
Unfortunately for Isak, his performance did little to silence the noise.
He struggled to influence the game and remained largely isolated as Liverpool’s attack repeatedly failed to provide him with quality service. His biggest opportunity eventually came late in the match, but his header lacked the required power and precision. (Opta Analyst)
For a player carrying enormous expectations, this was certainly not the dream return.
Liverpool will need considerably more from their record signing as the season progresses. 👀🔴
🚨 The defence remains a serious concern
Liverpool’s biggest problem may not have been their attack at all.
The defending was deeply worrying.
Newcastle opened the scoring after Liverpool surrendered possession and were exposed on the counter, with Anthony Elanga racing through to finish in the fifth minute. (Sky Sports)
Then, after Gakpo equalised, Liverpool conceded again just two minutes later.
Yoane Wissa drove through the middle before Joe Willock finished the move to restore Newcastle’s advantage. (This Is Anfield)
It was another example of Liverpool being vulnerable when possession was lost.
For a side expected to compete near the top of the Premier League, Iraola will have plenty of defensive work to do.
😬 Florian Wirtz struggles to make an impact
There was also disappointment surrounding Florian Wirtz.
The German midfielder showed flashes of quality but struggled to impose himself consistently on a match where Newcastle’s physicality and intensity made life extremely difficult.
Liverpool’s midfield frequently lacked control, while Newcastle found opportunities to attack the spaces around the Reds’ midfield and full-backs. (The Liverpool Offside)
It was far from the explosive Premier League debut many supporters had imagined.
⚠️ Jacquet thrown straight into the fire
Jeremy Jacquet’s competitive debut was always going to be challenging.
The young defender was handed a starting role alongside Virgil van Dijk, while Ronald Araujo began on the bench. (Liverpool FC)
Jacquet showed encouraging composure in moments, but Newcastle’s pace and movement exposed the fact that he is still adapting to the demands of Premier League football.
Araujo eventually replaced him in the 70th minute as Iraola searched for greater defensive security. (This Is Anfield)
🦸 Szoboszlai saves Liverpool at the death
Just when it appeared Newcastle had done enough to secure a famous opening-day victory, Liverpool received one final opportunity.
Substitute Victor Muñoz was brought down inside the penalty area deep into stoppage time, giving Liverpool a chance to rescue the match. (The Guardian)
With Mohamed Salah no longer at the club, the responsibility fell to Dominik Szoboszlai.
The Hungarian showed ice-cold composure and smashed the penalty home in the 99th minute. 🚨🔥
2-2.
Game over.
Liverpool had escaped.
🔴 The verdict
Liverpool deserve credit for fighting back twice and refusing to surrender.
But let’s be honest: this was not a convincing performance.
The Reds struggled to create consistently, looked vulnerable in transition and lacked cohesion for large periods. Newcastle arguably had the better opportunities and will feel they should have won after surrendering their advantage in the dying seconds. (Reuters)
Gakpo provided the attacking spark.
Szoboszlai delivered the heroics.
But Isak, Wirtz and sections of the defence will need to improve dramatically.
Iraola’s Liverpool have talent, but this performance made one thing painfully clear:
There is still A LOT of work to do at Anfield. 🔴👀🔥
A point was rescued.
But Liverpool fans will be expecting much more. 🏆⚽
