Liverpool 4–1 Newcastle: Late Konate Strike Crowns Dominant Anfield Display
Liverpool underlined their return to form with a commanding 4–1 victory over Newcastle United at Anfield, capped by a dramatic 93rd-minute goal from Ibrahima Konate. The result not only strengthened the Reds’ push for a top-four finish but also offered further evidence that Arne Slot’s project is beginning to gather real momentum.
Liverpool’s performance combined clinical attacking play with improved game management. Goals from Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz and a stoppage-time header from Konate ensured the scoreline accurately reflected the hosts’ dominance.
Early Pressure and Newcastle’s Opening Breakthrough
The opening exchanges followed a familiar pattern for Liverpool in recent weeks. Despite enjoying the majority of possession, the hosts initially struggled to break through Newcastle’s organised press. Set-pieces and wide deliveries gave the visitors early encouragement, while Liverpool were limited to isolated counter-attacks.
That pressure paid dividends in the 36th minute when Anthony Gordon found space on the edge of the area and curled a low effort beyond Alisson. At that stage, Newcastle were marginally ahead on expected goals and appeared comfortable in their defensive structure.
Liverpool’s response was swift. Five minutes later, Wirtz surged through midfield and released Ekitike, who finished calmly to restore parity. Barely 120 seconds had passed when the French forward struck again, racing onto a direct ball and beating Nick Pope with a disguised effort.
By half-time, Liverpool led 2–1 despite modest attacking numbers, highlighting their ability to convert limited opportunities into decisive moments.
Wirtz Control and Ekitike’s Ruthless Finishing
The second half belonged largely to Wirtz. The German international assumed control in advanced midfield areas, linking play, resisting pressure and repeatedly finding pockets of space between Newcastle’s defensive lines.
His defining contribution arrived in the 67th minute. After Liverpool regained possession inside the visitors’ half, the ball was worked quickly to Mohamed Salah, whose measured square pass allowed Wirtz to guide a first-time finish past Pope. With an xG of 0.18, the goal demonstrated both composure and tactical awareness.
Ekitike’s influence remained central throughout. Beyond his two goals, he pressed aggressively, tracked back when required and consistently stretched Newcastle’s back four. Since his Liverpool debut in August, only Erling Haaland has been involved in more Premier League goals, underlining his growing importance.
Together, Wirtz and Ekitike continue to form the creative and attacking core of Slot’s evolving system.
Slot’s Tactical Control and Late Defensive Reward
With a two-goal cushion, Slot’s focus shifted towards control and game management. Injuries had reduced Liverpool’s defensive depth, making structural discipline essential in the closing stages.
The introduction of Wataru Endo and Curtis Jones added stability in midfield, helping Liverpool retain possession and slow Newcastle’s momentum. The back line, led by Virgil van Dijk, dealt efficiently with aerial deliveries and second balls.
That defensive authority was rewarded in stoppage time. In the 93rd minute, Liverpool won a corner, which was recycled back into the penalty area. Konate rose above his marker and powered a header into the net, sealing a comprehensive 4–1 victory and providing a fitting conclusion to an assured display.
The goal was symbolic of Liverpool’s growing confidence, turning control into outright dominance in the final moments.
Momentum Builds in Liverpool’s Top-Four Push
For Liverpool FC, this win represents a significant step forward. It ended their winless run in the league in 2026 and offered renewed belief ahead of a demanding schedule.
Statistically, Liverpool have struggled for goals at Anfield this season, averaging fewer than 1.5 per match prior to this fixture. Scoring four against a disciplined Newcastle side therefore marked clear progress.
Salah’s creativity, Wirtz’s intelligence and Ekitike’s finishing now appear to be aligning within Slot’s framework. The addition of Konate’s late goal further highlighted the squad’s collective contribution.
With Champions League qualification still firmly within reach, this performance may prove a defining moment. If Liverpool can maintain this balance between attacking efficiency and defensive control, their ambitions for a strong finish remain realistic.
