Ngumoha breaks Liverpool's youngest assist record as Reds overturn 2-0 deficit to beat Villarreal

Rio Ngumoha became Liverpool’s youngest player to register a Champions League assist on Tuesday night, setting up two goals as the Reds overturned a 2-0 deficit to beat Villarreal 4-3 at Anfield in the competition’s league phase.

The 18-year-old England winger was the standout performer in a seven-goal thriller, drawing a standing ovation from the crowd when he was substituted late in the game. His two assists helped Liverpool secure a third consecutive win in the league phase, with Alexis Mac Allister netting twice, Ronald Araujo and Florian Wirtz also on the scoresheet.

“We have the best fans in the world and to hear my name chanted is a dream,” Ngumoha said after the match. “These records are amazing to break but winning is the most important. It was a top performance from the boys. We were two goals down but the mentality was always there. We knew we were going to win.”

Ngumoha was equally bullish about his own game, adding: “Whenever I get the ball and there’s an opportunity to go one-v-one or two-v-one, I believe in myself. I’ll just keep going and be ruthless.”

Double scorer Mac Allister was quick to credit his young teammate, describing Ngumoha as the difference-maker on the night. “Rio, he was amazing tonight. He made the difference. He was really important and I’m glad for him,” the Argentina midfielder said.

Mac Allister also addressed his own contract situation, with the midfielder entering the final two years of his deal and yet to receive a new offer from the club. “When I say what I said about my future, it was more about my emotions and feelings. That is their decision and it is fine with me. I do my best in training and in games. We will see what happens,” he said.

The Argentine also spoke warmly of head coach Andoni Iraola, saying: “From the first day, I started seeing something with the manager. He’s a nice guy, and the coaching staff is, too. We are going in the right direction but we need to work and put in everything. Hopefully, we can win some trophies.”