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Ekitike's double silences Anfield critics
Liverpool fought back from an early deficit to crush Newcastle United 4-1 on Sunday, with Hugo Ekitike delivering a standout performance that drew comparisons to club legend Fernando Torres.
The turning point
Newcastle's Anthony Gordon stunned the home crowd in the 36th minute, firing his side ahead with a composed finish and taunting the Kop. The goal marked the first time Liverpool had trailed to Newcastle at Anfield in the Premier League since 1994, raising fears of an extended winless streak.
Ekitike, however, had other plans. The 23-year-old French striker equalized with a predatory tap-in before adding a second just before half-time, sending Liverpool into the break with a lead they never relinquished.
A star in the making
Manager Arne Slot praised Ekitike's impact, calling him "special" and highlighting his blistering pace. "The fans love him," Slot said. "From the start, everyone could see how fast he is."
Newcastle's Eddie Howe, whose side had pursued Ekitike on three occasions, acknowledged the striker's quality. "He's got a little bit of everything-height, speed, and a clinical finish," Howe said. "You saw that today."
From rejected bids to Liverpool's talisman
Newcastle's interest in Ekitike dates back to 2022, when they first attempted to sign him from Reims. The striker, then 19, opted to join Paris Saint-Germain instead, later moving to Eintracht Frankfurt. A third bid last summer also fell through, with Liverpool ultimately securing his signature-and later Alexander Isak's-in a double blow to the Magpies.
"It hurts me from a Newcastle point of view. He could be wearing a black-and-white shirt. He's brilliant at stretching defences."
Shay Given, former Newcastle goalkeeper
Torres comparisons and a lethal partnership
Ekitike's second goal-a clinical finish after driving past Malick Thiaw-drew immediate comparisons to Torres' debut strike for Liverpool against Chelsea in 2007. Steven Gerrard, who set up Torres' goal, noted the similarities. "It's all about Hugo running the channel," Gerrard told TNT Sports. "That toe-poke reminds me of Torres every time I watch him."
The striker's chemistry with Florian Wirtz has also flourished, with the duo combining for six goals-more than any other Premier League partnership. Slot attributed their success to improved fitness, allowing them to maintain high intensity in back-to-back fixtures.
What's next
Ekitike's 15-goal haul this season makes him the youngest Liverpool player to reach double figures since Michael Owen in 2000-01. With the Reds now climbing the table, his role as a focal point in Slot's attack appears secure.
