Liverpool's stunning 4-1 victory over Newcastle was a testament to the team's resilience and attacking prowess. The Reds, led by the dynamic duo of Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz, produced one of their most convincing performances of the season, rising above Manchester United into fifth place in the Premier League table. Despite facing criticism for a lack of flair in recent weeks, Liverpool's first league win of 2026 showcased their style and attacking quality, scoring more than two goals at Anfield for the first time since the opening night against Bournemouth.
Ekitike, who scored twice, was the chief tormentor, aided by Florian Wirtz, now the Premier League's most prolific duo having combined for six goals in all competitions. Liverpool had to overcome an early setback after Anthony Gordon scored from open play for the first time in a year, but the remainder of the game was dictated by the dynamism of the hosts' attacking quality. Newcastle, missing key players Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton in midfield, struggled to cope with the tempo and were powerless to stop Wirtz' mazy dribble to tee up Ekitike for the leveller just before half-time.
After a taxing midweek trip to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, Newcastle had run out of steam. Wirtz combined with Mohamed Salah for a well-worked third to put the game to bed before Ibrahima Konate scored an emotional fourth late on, returning to the starting XI for the first time in three games after the sad passing of his father. Transformed in confidence, Liverpool leapfrogged Manchester United in the table and moved within a point of Chelsea in fourth, marking their first comeback win since April.
Player ratings: Liverpool's Alisson, Szoboszlai, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo, and Ekitike all received positive marks. Newcastle's Pope, Hall, Burn, Thiaw, Trippier, Ramsey, Tonali, Willock, Barnes, Gordon, and Elanga were also rated, with some players receiving higher marks than others. Florian Wirtz was named Player of the Match.
Are vintage Liverpool back? It's hard to pinpoint what 'vintage Liverpool' looks like this season, given the team's instability and inconsistency. However, this performance was a timely reminder of what Arne Slot's side are capable of in free flow. Finally, Liverpool resembles something vaguely recognizable, willing to attack at pace and with risk. Fewer shackles, more freedom.
Arne Slot, the Liverpool manager, spoke about the importance of blocking outside noise and focusing on the team's performance. Eddie Howe, the Newcastle manager, expressed disappointment with the scoreline, acknowledging that Liverpool's finishing was elite-level. The match stats highlighted Liverpool's dominance and Newcastle's struggles, with the hosts scoring four goals from a low xG value of just 0.92.
