Liverpool teenager Rio Ngumoha scored a dramatic winner against Newcastle United to become the club\'s youngest goalscorer at 16 years and 361 days old, breaking Ben Woodburn\'s previous record of 17 years and 45 days.
Ngumoha entered Monday\'s match in the 96th minute with Liverpool level at 2-2 against Newcastle. The former Chelsea academy product swept home a first-time shot four minutes later to secure a 3-2 victory at St James\' Park.
The teenager\'s historic goal eclipsed Woodburn\'s previous record set in a League Cup tie against Leeds United nearly nine years ago. Ngumoha\'s strike marked his Premier League debut after earlier appearances in the FA Cup this season.
Manager Arne Slot praised the teenager\'s composure and finishing ability despite his age. The Dutch coach has integrated Ngumoha into first-team preparations after impressive pre-season performances against Preston, Stoke, Milan, and other clubs.
\"Rio can finish really well for his age. How firm his shot was — you don\'t see that often for a 16-year-old,\" Slot said after the match.
A tribunal will determine Liverpool\'s compensation payment to Chelsea following Ngumoha\'s summer 2024 transfer. The Professional Football Compensation Committee has yet to announce its decision regarding the fee structure.
Liverpool previously paid Fulham $5.8 million for Harvey Elliott in 2019 through similar tribunal proceedings. Chelsea are expected to seek comparable compensation given Ngumoha\'s potential and development at their academy.
\"This is just the start now. He has to stay humble, but also enjoy it because these kinds of nights you can\'t take for granted,\" captain Virgil van Dijk told the teenager after the match.
Ngumoha will sign his first professional contract when he turns 17 on Friday, transitioning from his current scholar\'s agreement worth approximately $1,500 monthly.