Hugo Ekitike delivered a stunning performance for Liverpool, scoring two goals in a 4-1 comeback victory over Newcastle United at Anfield, a club that had repeatedly tried to sign him. His brace, which drew comparisons to Fernando Torres, underscored his rapid rise and left Newcastle ruing what might have been in a match that shifted momentum dramatically.
Newcastle took an early lead through Anthony Gordon in the 36th minute, capitalizing on a swift counter-attack that silenced the home crowd. The visitors had dominated the first half with a gameplan focused on speed, creating several chances including a Harvey Barnes free-kick that struck the post. However, Ekitike quickly responded, equalizing with a poacher’s finish after a fine assist from Florian Wirtz, who slalomed through the defense to set him up.
Just two minutes later, Ekitike seized on a through ball from Milos Kerkez, drove past defender Malick Thiaw, and fired home to put Liverpool ahead before halftime, showcasing the pace and clinical finishing that has defined his season. This quick-fire double turned the game on its head, leaving Newcastle shell-shocked after controlling much of the play.
Liverpool’s interest in Ekitike was piqued after Newcastle’s failed attempts to secure his signature last summer. The Magpies had scouted him extensively since his days at Reims and made multiple offers, but the striker opted for a move to Anfield instead, joining for an initial £69 million. This match served as a painful reminder of their missed opportunity, with Ekitike’s goals directly contributing to their defeat and highlighting the recruitment gap between the clubs.
The comparisons to Fernando Torres were not lost on observers, particularly when Ekitike’s second goal mirrored Torres’ iconic strike against Chelsea in 2007. Steven Gerrard, who played alongside Torres, noted the similarity on commentary, praising Ekitike’s ability to run the channels and finish with precision. This performance highlighted Ekitike’s growing partnership with Wirtz, which has already combined for six goals this season, forming a lethal duo reminiscent of Liverpool’s past greats.
Manager Arne Slot expressed delight with Ekitike’s impact, emphasizing the striker’s special qualities and the fans’ admiration. Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s coach, acknowledged Ekitike’s talent while lamenting his team’s defensive lapses, particularly Thiaw’s failure to close down for the second goal. The match also saw Ibrahima Konaté score his first league goal at Anfield in stoppage time, adding emotional depth as he played shortly after his father’s death, a moment that moved him to tears.
Liverpool’s victory marked a return to form, ending a winless run and demonstrating improved consistency under Slot, who praised the team’s response in both boxes. For Newcastle, the loss extended their poor record at Anfield, where they haven’t won since 1994, and highlighted ongoing challenges in capitalizing on transfer targets, with club legend Shay Given expressing regret over missing out on Ekitike.
Ekitike’s double took his league tally to 10 goals, making him the youngest Liverpool player to reach double figures in a season since Michael Owen in 2000-01. As Liverpool push for the Premier League title, his partnership with Wirtz promises more fireworks, while Newcastle must regroup and address their recruitment strategies to avoid similar disappointments in future windows.
