Liverpool begins the year with a bang securing their first victory for 2024 against Newcastle at Anfield. In this article we shall perform a detailed analysis of the match.
Table of Contents
Key data points
Here are some of the key data points regarding the match:
Overview
- Date & Venue: January 1, 2024, at Anfield, Liverpool, England
- Final Score: Liv 4 – 2 New
Key Match Events & Statistics
| Statistic | Liverpool | Newcastle |
|---|---|---|
| Goals Scored | Mohamed Salah (49′, 86′), Curtis Jones (74′), Cody Gakpo (78′) | Alexander Isak (54′), Sven Botman (81′) |
| Possession | 61.9% | 38.1% |
| Shots on Goal | 15 | 3 |
| Total Shot Attempts | 34 | 5 |
| Yellow Cards | 3 | 5 |
| Corner Kicks | 7 | 3 |
| Saves | 1 | 10 |
| Linups | Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker Defenders: Joe Gomez, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Trent Alexander-Arnold Midfielders: Wataru Endo, Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones, Dominik Szoboszlai Forwards: Darwin Nunez, Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo | Goalkeeper: Martin Dubravka Defenders: Dan Burn, Sven Botman, Fabian Schar, Lewis Hall, Valentino Livramento Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Sean Longstaff, Lewis Miley, Miguel Almiron Forwards: Alexander Isak, Joelinton, Jamaal Lascelles, Anthony Gordon |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 7.27 | 0.6 |
Liverpool’s dominance in the match against Newcastle
Now look at the stats mentioned above subjectively Liverpool were exceptionally better in terms of creating chances and converting those as compared to Newcastle. However to give them credit out of only 5 shots attempted, they were able to convert 2 however it was not enough. In terms of xG that Liverpool achieved I must say it was extremely forgiving to say that only 4 goals hit the back of the net some of which can be attributed to the performance of the goalkeeper none the less. Also the club actually managed to break the record of Premier League as well.
Newcastle’s problems continues
Newcastle has faced challenges in recent Premier League games, losing five of their last six matches, including five consecutive away defeats. Post the problems with their star hire Sandro Tonali and his gambling problems leading to his suspension things look bad for this club. Trippier is out of form and their main defensive midfielder is out for the season. Isak’s young an d lets be hones the wingers are not world class to ensure draw or victory.
Martin Dubravka
The only player actually doing something good on the pitch was the goalkeeper Martin Dubravka. Despite the loss, Martin Dubravka made an impressive 10 saves in the match, including a penalty save, tying for the most saves by a keeper in a Premier League game this season. A big personal achievement to be honest.
Salah
The Egyptian king is still kicking and has again hit back with a stellar performance. The 31 year old has continued to be in his best of form and performing well under Klopp.
Final Thoughts
In simple terms, the Liverpool vs Newcastle match was a showcase of Liverpool’s attacking strength and Mohamed Salah’s exceptional talent. Liverpool dominated the game, creating numerous chances and setting a record for expected goals. Salah’s milestone of 150 Premier League goals for Liverpool was a highlight, emphasizing his crucial role in the team.
Despite Newcastle’s struggles in recent games, their goalkeeper, Martin Dubravka, put up a remarkable performance with numerous saves. Overall, the match was a clear demonstration of Liverpool’s offensive prowess and Newcastle’s resilience, even in defeat.