Liverpool appeared to have several flaws at St. James Park, looking vulnerable despite starting the season with two wins. Newcastle under Eddie Howe relies on a tough, aggressive defense that seals games and unsettles opponents. Darwin Nunez's previous off-the-bench impact masked Liverpool's weaknesses at St. James' Park. Arne Slot shifted Dominik Szoboszlai to right back to cover for Jeremie Frimpong's hamstring absence. Szoboszlai performed well, but Liverpool played submissively in the first 35 minutes. Lack of physical strength allowed Newcastle to threaten with corners and long balls. Newcastle outshot Liverpool 6-2 and recorded an xG of 0.58 to 0.07. Ryan Gravenberch's deflected goal provided a bright spot.
Under Manager Eddie Howe, Newcastle's strongest attribute is its tough, aggressive defense. This approach has allowed the Magpies to seal games and change their narrative in recent years, while also fostering a hostile relationship with many Premier League teams, including Liverpool. Without Darwin Nunez's heroic off-the-bench performance two years ago, Liverpool's vulnerability at St. James' Park would be even clearer.
Aware of Newcastle's physical and intense style, Arne Slot shifted Dominik Szoboszlai to right back to cover for Jeremie Frimpong, who was absent due to a hamstring injury. Although Szoboszlai performed well in his new role, Liverpool couldn't counter Newcastle's relentless pressure, playing submissively in the first 35 minutes. Liverpool's lack of physical strength also proved costly, as Newcastle threatened with corners and long balls. Despite Liverpool taking the lead later, Newcastle outshot them 6-2 and had a higher expected goals (xG) of 0.58 compared to 0.07.
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