In the world of English football, few fixtures capture attention quite like Newcastle United vs Liverpool. This rivalry isn’t built on geographical proximity, but on decades of high-intensity clashes, dramatic goals, and unforgettable moments that live long in Premier League history. While Liverpool often comes into these matches as favorites thanks to their long record of success, Newcastle’s passionate fan base and attacking flair have produced some of the league’s greatest games.
From Kevin Keegan’s “Entertainers” era in the 1990s to Jürgen Klopp’s relentless pressing machine in the 2010s and Eddie Howe’s newly rejuvenated Newcastle, this fixture continues to deliver. We delve into the head-to-head record, match statistics, results, and history that define Newcastle United vs. Liverpool.
Newcastle vs Liverpool Rivalry Explained
The rivalry between Newcastle and Liverpool stems from more than just football—it’s about identity. Liverpool, a club with European and domestic dominance, contrasts with Newcastle, a northern powerhouse fueled by loyal supporters and a rich cultural connection to the city.
The 1990s ignited this rivalry with two unforgettable 4–3 thrillers, often ranked among the best Premier League matches ever. Since then, this fixture has come to symbolize drama, emotion, and high-quality football. For Newcastle, beating Liverpool is about proving they belong at the top level, while for Liverpool, it’s about maintaining dominance against emerging challengers.
Head to Head Record – All Competitions
Here is a breakdown of the historical head-to-head stats between Newcastle and Liverpool across competitions (data up to 2025):
| Competition | Matches Played | Liverpool Wins | Newcastle Wins | Draws | Goals Scored (LIV–NEW) |
| Premier League | 58 | 34 | 11 | 13 | 109 – 50 |
| FA Cup | 12 | 8 | 2 | 2 | 24 – 9 |
| League Cup | 6 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 11 – 5 |
| Other (Charity/Europe) | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 6 – 2 |
| Total | 78 | 48 | 15 | 15 | 150 – 66 |
👉 From the numbers, Liverpool clearly dominates, but Newcastle’s victories have often been dramatic and celebrated by fans.
Premier League Encounters
Since the formation of the Premier League in 1992, Liverpool have consistently outperformed Newcastle. The Reds’ dominance is highlighted by their long unbeaten runs against the Magpies, including several high-scoring victories at Anfield.
- Liverpool’s dominance: Multiple streaks of 10+ games unbeaten.
- Newcastle’s highlights: Memorable home wins in 2001 and 2012, when Papiss Cissé stunned Liverpool with a brace.
- Classic Premier League encounters: 1996: Liverpool 4–3 Newcastle (Stan Collymore’s last-minute winner, Keegan slumped on the advertising board) 1997: Liverpool 4–3 Newcastle (another Anfield thriller)
These matches cemented this rivalry as a must-watch in English football.
Recent Results (Last 10 Meetings)
Here’s a snapshot of the last 10 matches (2019–2024):
- Liverpool wins: 7
- Draws: 2
- Newcastle wins: 1
Notably, Newcastle’s victory in 2023 under Eddie Howe highlighted their progress under new ownership. Liverpool, however, remains the dominant side in most encounters, often powered by Mohamed Salah’s goals.
Key Match Stats and Records
- Top Goal Scorer in This Fixture: Mohamed Salah (scored 9+ goals vs Newcastle)
- Most Appearances: Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard featured heavily for Liverpool; Alan Shearer for Newcastle.
- Biggest Win: Liverpool 6–0 Newcastle (April 2013, St James’ Park)
- Most Goals in a Match: 7 (Liverpool 4–3 Newcastle, 1996 & 1997)
- Clean Sheets: Liverpool holds more than double Newcastle’s tally.
Memorable Matches in History
- Liverpool 4–3 Newcastle (1996) – Voted one of the best Premier League matches ever, with end-to-end drama and Collymore’s last-second strike.
- Liverpool 4–3 Newcastle (1997) – A repeat thriller, cementing this as a legendary rivalry.
- Newcastle 2–0 Liverpool (2012) – Papiss Cissé’s wonder goal capped off a shock win.
- Liverpool 3–1 Newcastle (2019) – Salah, Mane, and Firmino combined in Klopp’s dominant era.
Each of these games remains etched in football memory for its intensity and quality.
Newcastle vs Liverpool at St James’ Park
Newcastle’s home ground has always been a fortress, with fans roaring their team forward. While Liverpool often finds success there, the Magpies have secured statement wins, especially during strong seasons under Bobby Robson and Eddie Howe. The atmosphere at St James’ Park makes every meeting an event.
Newcastle vs Liverpool at Anfield
Anfield has historically been a nightmare for Newcastle. Liverpool’s aggressive pressing, coupled with the iconic Kop support, has produced some of the most one-sided scorelines in this rivalry. Newcastle have struggled to win away, but their rare points at Anfield are celebrated like trophies.
Tactical Battles Over the Years
- Keegan’s Entertainers (1990s): Focused on attacking football, often leaving spaces Liverpool exploited.
- Benitez era: Tactical discipline, defensive strength, and occasional upsets.
- Klopp vs Howe (2020s): Klopp’s gegenpress vs Howe’s organized pressing and quick counter-attacks. These tactical evolutions keep this rivalry fresh and unpredictable.
Players Who Shined in This Rivalry
- For Newcastle: Alan Shearer, Les Ferdinand, David Ginola, Papiss Cissé, Callum Wilson.
- For Liverpool: Steven Gerrard, Robbie Fowler, Michael Owen, Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane. Certain players are remembered for defining moments—like Shearer’s goals or Salah’s constant dominance.
Impact on Title Races and League Standings
Newcastle may not always be in direct title battles, but their performances against Liverpool have often shaped league outcomes. A late draw or shock win can derail Liverpool’s title chase or boost Newcastle’s European dreams. Conversely, Liverpool’s consistency against Newcastle has often given them crucial points in tight races.
Statistical Comparison: Newcastle vs Liverpool
- Average goals per game: 3.0+ (one of the highest in Premier League history).
- Possession: Liverpool typically maintains a dominant 60%+ possession rate.
- Red cards: Multiple red cards in fiery fixtures, highlighting the intensity.
Future of Newcastle vs Liverpool Rivalry
With Newcastle’s Saudi-backed ownership and Eddie Howe’s vision, the Magpies are no longer mid-table contenders—they’re chasing Champions League spots. Liverpool, while undergoing a rebuild, remain one of the most competitive teams. This dynamic sets up future meetings to be tighter and more competitive than ever before.
Fan Reactions and Media Coverage
Fans on both sides treat this fixture as a highlight of the season. Social media lights up with memes, debates, and celebrations after every game. Media coverage often hypes Newcastle as the ambitious underdog and Liverpool as the dominant powerhouse.
Final thoughts
The story of Newcastle vs Liverpool is not just about numbers—it’s about passion, unforgettable drama, and footballing legacy. While Liverpool leads the head-to-head record by a wide margin, Newcastle’s resilience and flair have ensured this rivalry remains alive. Whether at St James’ Park or Anfield, fans can always expect entertainment, drama, and history being written once again.
FAQs
Q1. How many times have Newcastle beaten Liverpool?
Ans: Newcastle have beaten Liverpool around 15 times across all competitions, though Liverpool hold a much larger share of victories.
Q2. What is the biggest win in Newcastle vs Liverpool history?
Ans: Liverpool’s 6–0 victory at St James’ Park in April 2013 stands as the biggest win.
Q3. Who has scored the most goals in Newcastle vs Liverpool matches?
Ans: Mohamed Salah holds the record among active players, while historically Robbie Fowler and Michael Owen also scored heavily.
Q4. How many Premier League wins does Liverpool have against Newcastle?
Ans: Liverpool has won 34 of their Premier League meetings with Newcastle, showing their dominance.
Q5. What is the most famous Newcastle vs Liverpool game?
Ans: The 1996 Liverpool 4–3 Newcastle match is widely regarded as one of the best Premier League games ever.
Q6. Where can I watch Newcastle vs Liverpool live?
Ans: Matches are broadcast on Sky Sports in the UK, Peacock in the US, and various official Premier League broadcasters worldwide.
Q7. What is the recent form between Newcastle and Liverpool?
Ans: In the last 10 games, Liverpool have won most encounters, but Newcastle have shown improvement under Eddie Howe with a recent win in 2023.