Liverpool took a major leap toward the Premier League title with a composed 2-0 victory over Newcastle at Anfield. Arne Slot’s side extended their lead at the top to 13 points with just 10 games remaining. Goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister sealed the win, reinforcing Liverpool’s status as the team to beat this season.
Meanwhile, Newcastle struggled to make an impact, highlighting the challenges Eddie Howe’s side faces as they prepare for their upcoming Carabao Cup final rematch against Liverpool.
Lineups
Liverpool started with Alisson in goal, a back four of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, and Andy Robertson, while Wataru Endo anchored the midfield alongside Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister. Luis Díaz, Mohamed Salah, and Darwin Núñez led the attack.
Newcastle lined up with Nick Pope in goal, a defensive unit of Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schär, Dan Burn, and Tino Livramento, a midfield featuring Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, and Sean Longstaff, while Anthony Gordon supported Callum Wilson up front.
How the Match Unfolded
Liverpool started brightly, pressing Newcastle high up the pitch. Mohamed Salah felt he should have won an early penalty when he went down under pressure from Lewis Hall, but referee Stuart Attwell waved away the protests.
The breakthrough came in the first half when Luis Díaz outpaced Tino Livramento and cut the ball back for Dominik Szoboszlai, whose shot, deflected off Dan Burn, found its way past Nick Pope.
Newcastle had chances to respond, particularly through Callum Wilson, who was twice played through on goal but lacked the sharpness to convert. The second half saw Liverpool remain dominant, and they doubled their lead in style.
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Alexis Mac Allister intercepted a loose pass from Sandro Tonali, played a one-two with Salah, and rifled a shot into the top corner, leaving Pope with no chance. Salah nearly added a third with a stunning outside-foot cross to Luis Díaz, who missed from close range.
Post-Match Analysis
Liverpool’s energy and tactical discipline were on full display, marking another step toward the title. Their work rate and pressing game left Newcastle struggling to create clear-cut chances. Meanwhile, the absence of key players like Alexander Isak, Joelinton, and Sven Botman left Eddie Howe’s side vulnerable in defense. Newcastle improved slightly in the second half, but Liverpool ensured there was no way back.
What the Coaches Said
Arne Slot praised his team’s mental strength: “After the Everton and Wolves games, people started to question us. Instead of getting complacent, the players found an extra gear. The mentality of this squad is exceptional.” The Liverpool coach also defended his decision to rest senior players in the FA Cup exit against Plymouth, saying, “The players needed a break. This was our fifth game in 15 days, and we needed to manage their workload.”
Eddie Howe, meanwhile, admitted frustration over the defensive lapses. “I thought we played pretty well overall, but the two goals were completely avoidable. We had enough bodies back but didn’t mark our men properly. That’s disappointing,” he said, hoping his team can recover in time for their Carabao Cup final rematch against Liverpool.
Player of the Match
Alexis Mac Allister delivered a standout performance, dictating play in midfield and scoring a stunning goal. His intelligence on and off the ball was crucial in securing Liverpool’s victory.
What Next?
Liverpool now enjoy a well-earned break before facing Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last-16 first leg. With 10 league games remaining, the title is within reach. Newcastle, meanwhile, must regroup and hope for the return of key players as they prepare for their upcoming Carabao Cup final clash with Liverpool.
EPL Top Six Table
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