EPL: Liverpool Extend Premier League Lead with 2-0 Win Over Newcastle

Liverpool have extended their Premier League lead to 13 points after securing a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United at Anfield.

Liverpool have extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to 13 points after securing a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United at Anfield. This win marks the 18th consecutive home game in which Liverpool have scored at least twice, a testament to their formidable attacking prowess.

The pre-match team news was dominated by the surprise omission of Newcastle's star striker Alexander Isak, who was ruled out due to a groin injury. This absence made an already daunting task even more challenging for Eddie Howe's side, who were facing a Liverpool team in impressive form.

Another three points in the bag for @LFC as they extend their lead at the top to 13 points 🎒#LIVNEW pic.twitter.com/CK7W7qmk2k

— Premier League (@premierleague) February 26, 2025

Despite being absent from the touchline due to a two-match ban, Liverpool manager Arne Slot witnessed his team take the lead just 11 minutes into the game. Dominik Szoboszlai coolly slotted the ball home from close range after being expertly picked out by Luis Diaz, marking Liverpool's 100th goal of the season in all competitions.

Liverpool's dominance was nearly disrupted when Dan Burn's long ball found Callum Wilson, who sprinted past the defense and had a one-on-one opportunity with Alisson. However, Wilson's shot sailed wide, sparing Liverpool's defense. Moments later, Dominik Szoboszlai narrowly missed doubling Liverpool's lead when his right-footed effort whizzed past the post, courtesy of a clever setup by Diogo Jota.

Aside from Wilson's chance, Liverpool enjoyed a relatively comfortable first half, with the team yet to shift into high gear as the whistle blew for halftime. The Reds' performance was characterized by a sense of control, albeit without reaching their usual intensity.

Following the restart, Liverpool began slowly, but eventually found their rhythm and doubled their advantage in the 63rd minute through Alexis Mac Allister. The Argentine midfielder showcased his skill by intercepting the ball in midfield and initiating a slick combination with Mohamed Salah, culminating in a precise right-footed finish past Nick Pope. Later, Salah delivered an exquisite cross with the outside of his right foot, but Luis Díaz slid wide at the far post, unable to capitalize on the opportunity.

Ultimately, Liverpool secured the win without producing their most dazzling performance, largely due to Newcastle's lack of attacking potency in Alexander Isak's absence. Eddie Howe's team has now lost four of their last six Premier League matches, complicating their pursuit of European qualification. In contrast, Liverpool's grip on the title race continues to tighten, rendering the competition increasingly one-sided with each passing game.