Liverpool’s teenage debutant Rio Ngumoha produced a fairytale moment on Monday night, scoring a stoppage-time winner to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory against Newcastle United in the Premier League.
The 16-year-old forward had only just come on in the dying moments when he smashed home the decisive goal, breaking Newcastle’s resistance at a packed St James’ Park.
Newcastle had started the game strongly but were rocked when Ryan Gravenberch’s strike gave Liverpool the lead in the 35th minute. Just before half-time, Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon was sent off for a rash tackle on Virgil van Dijk, leaving the hosts with 10 men.
Early in the second half, Hugo Ekitike doubled Liverpool’s advantage with a composed finish, and it looked like the visitors were cruising. But Newcastle showed incredible fight. Bruno Guimaraes pulled one back with a powerful header in the 57th minute, and substitute William Osula stunned Liverpool by equalising in the 88th.
At that point, Newcastle fans believed the comeback was on. But in stoppage time, Ngumoha stepped up in dramatic fashion. His strike not only sealed the win but also gave Liverpool their second victory in as many games this season.
For Liverpool, it was a reminder of both their attacking depth and their vulnerability when under pressure. For Ngumoha, it was a debut he — and fans worldwide — will never forget.
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