Liverpool snatch 2-2 draw at Newcastle with Szoboszlai's late penalty

Liverpool snatched a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United in a thrilling Premier League opener at St James' Park on Sunday, August 23. Dominik Szoboszlai's stoppage-time penalty denied Newcastle victory and secured a point for Liverpool. Anthony Elanga had given Newcastle an early lead in the fifth minute, but Cody Gakpo equalized for Liverpool in the 55th minute. Joe Willock quickly restored Newcastle's advantage two minutes later with a long-range effort, making it seem like the hosts would claim three points in Matthias Jaissle's first Premier League match as head coach. However, deep into stoppage time, Liverpool was awarded a penalty after Lewis Hall fouled debutant Victor Munoz. VAR confirmed the decision, and Szoboszlai converted the penalty in the ninth minute of added time. "It is a strange feeling," said Liverpool coach Andoni Iraola. "Before the game we wouldn't have signed for this result, but the way we scored the goal in the end, it tastes better." The draw marked a point for both new managers in their league debuts, with Iraola replacing Arne Slot at Liverpool and Jaissle succeeding Eddie Howe at Newcastle. The late equalizer continued a tradition of dramatic encounters between the two clubs, following Liverpool's 100th-minute winner at the same venue last season. Newcastle started strongly, with Elanga racing clear to score early on. They maintained their intensity and threatened on the counterattack. Liverpool responded after halftime, with Gakpo leveling the score with a shot from around 20 yards. Newcastle immediately regained the lead through Willock's curling effort. Newcastle's goals reflected the fast-transition football Jaissle aims to establish. Yoane Wissa played a key role in the second goal, carrying the ball forward before finding Willock. Wissa also had a chance to extend Newcastle's lead but was denied by Alisson in a one-on-one situation. Alisson's save proved crucial as Liverpool eventually found their equalizer. The Brazil international was vital for Liverpool, who struggled at times to contain Newcastle's counterattacks. For Liverpool, Gakpo was a significant attacking threat, while Munoz made an immediate impact after coming off the bench, ultimately winning the late penalty.

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It is a strange feeling. Before the game we wouldn't have signed for this result, but the way we scored the goal in the end, it tastes better.