Super-sub Darwin Nunez helps 10-man Liverpool to stun Newcastle United
Darwin Nunez came off the bench to score twice to help 10-man Liverpool stun Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’ Park. Eddie Howe’s side were looking for their first win against the Reds since 2015, but failed to do so courtesy of two Nunez goals.
Furthermore, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk was sent off after Anthony Gordon scored the first goal of the match in the 25th minute. The goal came through Alexander-Arnold’s mistake who miscontrolled a Mohamed Salah pass straight into the path of Gordon.
New signing Wataru Endo made his first start for Liverpool. Whereas Newcastle started with the same 11 that lost 1-0 to Manchester City last weekend.
Both sides were playing safe at the start of the match with only Gordan and Joelinton testing Alisson, who made comfortable saves from both attempts.
Liverpool’s best chance came minutes later when Luis Diaz forced Nick Pope to save his near post shot after a brilliant run.
Darwin Nunez finally shows his worth as Liverpool stun Newcastle United
After Van Dijk was sent off, Joe Gomez came on to replace him. The Magpies were pushing for a second goal constantly. Almiron and Sven Botman both came close to scoring the second goal but Alisson kept the Reds alive.
The Magpies were punished to not take their chances as they were stunned moments later when Liverpool substitute Nunez equalized. The Uruguayan ran through on goal after Botman couldn’t intercept Jota’s pass, before firing in low off the post for his first goal of the season.
Remarkably, Nunez wasn’t done there, and in stoppage time he found himself through on goal again. Once again the 24-year-old finished brilliantly to win the game in dramatic style.
Nunez joined Liverpool last season from Benfica for £64 million. However, in his first season he was not up to the mark and was mocked as a ‘flop’. Moreover, comparisons with City’s new signing Erling Haaland was also difficult for him.
But, this season Nunez has a chance to showcase his talent to the world. After Roberto Firmino left this summer, it opens more room for chances for the Uruguayan striker to start.
