Newcastle United and Liverpool played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at St James’ Park as both teams began the new Premier League season with plenty of drama.
Anthony Elanga opened the scoring for Newcastle after William Osula sent him clear. Elanga showed good pace before keeping his cool and finishing past Alisson.
The goal was a major moment for the winger. Elanga joined Newcastle from Nottingham Forest for £55m after the 2025-26 season. He had gone through the entire league campaign without scoring.
His drought began after he missed a simpler chance against Aston Villa on the opening day last season. This time, he made no mistake.
The goal gave Newcastle an early boost in front of almost 50,000 fans. It also offered Elanga a chance to start again after a difficult first season.
Liverpool responded after the break. Cody Gakpo found the net with a fine finish to bring the visitors level.
The champions then looked to take control of the game. However, Newcastle regained the lead and appeared set to claim a major opening-day win.
There was still one final twist.
Liverpool substitute Victor Muñoz was brought down inside the Newcastle area by Lewis Hall. Referee awarded a penalty to the visitors late in the match.
Dominik Szoboszlai stepped up and calmly converted from the spot. The goal made it 2-2 and denied Newcastle a famous victory.
Muñoz was also a player Newcastle had targeted during the summer. The Spanish forward had reportedly shown interest in moving to Tyneside.
Liverpool eventually met his release clause and took him to Anfield instead. His late role in the match made the transfer story even more striking.
The draw also offered an emotional moment for Newcastle supporters. The match came shortly after the death of club legend Kevin Keegan.
Fans paid tribute to the former Newcastle manager before kick-off. Keegan remains one of the most important figures in the club’s modern history.
His time at Newcastle helped restore belief in the club during a difficult period. His teams also became known for attacking football and a fearless style.
That spirit was visible during parts of Sunday’s match. Both teams showed a willingness to attack, even though they also made mistakes.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola will know there is work to do. The team showed several positive signs but also repeated some familiar problems.
Jérémy Jacquet improved as the match went on during his debut. Gakpo also looked dangerous before scoring soon after the break.
Rio Ngumoha was quieter but his starting role still offered a positive sign for Liverpool.
There were concerns too. Liverpool’s full-backs looked uncertain at times, while the club needs more from two of its biggest stars.
Florian Wirtz and former Newcastle striker Alexander Isak struggled to make a major impact.
Isak received a hostile reception from the home crowd after his move to Liverpool. The Swedish forward did not appear distracted by the reaction.
His performance, however, remains a concern. Isak was once regarded as one of the Premier League’s top forwards, and Liverpool will need him to rediscover that level.
His best chance came when he sent a left-footed effort high over the goal.
Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle is likely to receive more patience from supporters.
The club has gone through major changes, and several important players have left. Jaissle needs time to build a new team.
Newcastle’s midfield looked different after two players were sold for more than £180m. Lewis Miley and Sean Steur formed a young central partnership.
The pair made mistakes but also showed courage by trying to play positive football. That approach is likely to win them support from Newcastle fans.
Yoane Wissa also impressed in a new attacking role. After looking slow and static at times last season, he appeared much more active as a No 10.
For both teams, the opening-day draw offers reasons for hope and concern.
Liverpool will want to improve their defense and get more from their key attacking players. Newcastle will need patience as their new manager builds a team with several young players.
The 2-2 scoreline reflected an entertaining match filled with mistakes, chances and late drama.
Both sides now have a point from their first game. More importantly, both have clear areas to improve as the new Premier League season continues.
