Anthony Elanga scored Newcastle United’s first goal against Liverpool on the 2026–27 Premier League opening weekend.
Elanga struck after only five minutes at St James’ Park, finishing a rapid Newcastle counterattack. The goal was significant because he had played 1,315 league minutes for Newcastle during the previous season without scoring.
Liverpool equalised through Cody Gakpo in the 55th minute, but Newcastle regained the lead when substitute Joe Willock scored 110 seconds later. Liverpool eventually rescued a 2–2 draw when Dominik Szoboszlai converted a penalty in the ninth minute of stoppage time.
Elanga had joined Newcastle after making his name as a direct, fast wide attacker. His pace made him particularly dangerous in transition, and the early goal showed how quickly Newcastle could exploit space behind Liverpool’s defence.
The fixture also carried emotional significance because Newcastle held tributes for Kevin Keegan, who had played for both clubs and managed Newcastle. A large “Keegan 7” display appeared at the ground before kick-off.