Liverpool snatch draw at Newcastle with late penalty

Liverpool salvaged a 2-2 draw against Newcastle thanks to Dominik Szoboszlai's 99th-minute penalty, a result that offered relief rather than jubilation. Manager Andoni Iraola stated his team deserved the point, emphasizing their refusal to give up after trailing twice at the raucous St James' Park.

While avoiding their first opening weekend defeat since the 2012-13 season, the performance highlighted significant concerns for Liverpool. Pundits noted a lack of creativity and questioned whether the team looked like a top-four contender. "You're expecting Liverpool to get top four this season at least but they didn't look like a top four team today," former Scotland winger Pat Nevin told BBC Radio 5 Live.

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It's probably not the result you want when you come in before the game but we definitely deserve this point and even more. The team has never given up and we've recovered one point and probably the taste is better because we score in the last minute.

High-profile signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, acquired for nine-figure fees, underperformed. Wirtz was substituted after Newcastle took a 2-1 lead, while Isak, who was jeered throughout the match, wasted a key second-half opportunity. Both players are expected to improve their output and connection with the team in the coming weeks.

The transfer window also presents questions, particularly regarding Cody Gakpo's future. If Liverpool secures additional attacking players, Gakpo might depart. The club has reportedly had bids rejected for Yankuba Minteh and is linked with Bradley Barcola. Despite the uncertainty, Gakpo was Liverpool's best player at Newcastle, scoring their first goal, and debutant Victor Munoz won the late penalty.

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You're expecting Liverpool to get top four this season at least but they didn't look like a top four team today. There are more players to come in, so you can't make a real decision on how their season is going to go.