Liverpool dominated the first half, controlling 61% possession and registering 8 shots, including 3 clear-cut chances, compared to Newcastle's 6 attempts, none of which were truly threatening. Despite this dominance, Newcastle ironically broke the deadlock.

In the 36th minute, Anthony Gordon scored with a diagonal shot that went through defender Milos Kerkez's legs into the far corner, leaving Alisson helpless. This proved to be Newcastle's only significant contribution at Anfield.

Hugo Ekitike celebrates a goal during Liverpool's 4-1 victory over Newcastle in the 24th round of the Premier League at Anfield, Liverpool, England, on 31/1. *Photo: EPA*.

Liverpool quickly responded. Just 5 minutes after conceding, Florian Wirtz made a decisive run into the penalty area, delivering a precise cross for Hugo Ekitike to tap in from close range, leveling the score. 3 minutes later, the French striker completed his brace with a diagonal toe-poke, sending Liverpool into halftime with a lead.

Liverpool maintained control in the second half, with their relentless pressure exposing Newcastle's defensive vulnerabilities. In the 67th minute, Mohamed Salah delivered an accurate assist to Wirtz, who, unmarked, slotted a clever shot into the far corner to extend the lead.

This goal further highlighted the synergy between Wirtz and Ekitike. The duo has now contributed to 6 goals for Liverpool across all competitions this season, the highest tally for any pair of players in the Premier League, with each assisting 3 goals for the other.

Mohamed Salah continued his exceptional record against Newcastle, becoming the first player in Premier League history to achieve double-digit goals and assists against a single opponent. In 19 league appearances against the "Magpies", Salah has scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists.

Liverpool's dominant performance concluded in the third minute of injury time. From a corner, goalkeeper Nick Pope fumbled the ball, creating an opportunity for Ibrahima Konate to tap in the rebound. The ball deflected off a Newcastle player and slowly rolled into the net, securing a decisive victory for the hosts.

Ibrahima Konate is emotional after scoring. *Photo: AP*.

Konate's injury-time goal not only secured Liverpool's emphatic win but also held personal significance for him. The French center-back had just returned to the starting lineup after missing 3 matches to mourn his father, Hamady, who passed away earlier this month. He was visibly emotional after scoring, with teammates, including Alisson Becker, rushing to embrace him. Konate wiped away tears before receiving another comforting hug from captain Van Dijk.

After the match, Konate acknowledged the challenging period for him and his family. "I am very happy with this goal, but it is difficult to express my emotions right now. The past two weeks have been very tough. This is part of life, and sometimes we have no other choice", the 26-year-old said, extending his gratitude to the coaching staff and teammates for their unwavering support during his bereavement.

The 4-1 victory temporarily moved Liverpool to fifth place with 39 points, displacing Man Utd (38 points) to sixth. Man Utd is scheduled to host Fulham at Old Trafford today.

Hong Duy