Szoboszlai's last-gasp penalty rescues Liverpool in Newcastle draw

Dominik Szoboszlai's penalty with the final kick of the game salvaged a dramatic 2-2 draw for Liverpool against Newcastle. The result offered a glimmer of hope for new manager Andoni Iraola in his first match, though the team's defensive frailties were exposed.

Liverpool's performance was unconvincing, highlighting the challenges Iraola faces in rebuilding the squad. The team kicked off the season without long-time talisman Mohamed Salah, who moved to Trabzonspor, and with other key players also departing. Iraola, who impressed at Bournemouth last season, must now work to close the gap on champions Arsenal.

The match saw Newcastle take the lead through Anthony Elanga, with Cody Gakpo equalizing for Liverpool. Joe Willock briefly restored Newcastle's advantage before Szoboszlai's late penalty secured a point. Debutant defender Jeremy Jacquet struggled alongside Virgil van Dijk, and young winger Rio Ngumoha failed to fill Salah's void.

Fans of both clubs observed an emotional pre-match tribute to Kevin Keegan, a former manager for Newcastle and striker for Liverpool, who recently passed away at the age of 75. The game also saw Alexander Isak return to St James' Park for the first time since his significant transfer to Liverpool last year.