“I Couldn’t Keep It… He Deserved It More!” – Liverpool’s Rio Nguhoma Surprises Fans by Handing Over His Man of the Match Award to Cody Gakpo After Newcastle Clash
Breaking News: Following Liverpool’s dramatic 3-2 triumph over Newcastle at St. James’ Park, Rio Nguhoma shocked fans when he refused to accept his Man of the Match award. Instead, the forward immediately passed it on to teammate Cody Gakpo, insisting the Dutchman was the true star of the night.
Nguhoma, who scored the decisive goal in the 89th minute, was widely expected to bask in the limelight. However, in a display of humility, he said: “I’ve officially given the Man of the Match to him. He gave everything to make this win possible.” The gesture has gone viral, with supporters praising it as one of the most selfless acts seen in the Premier League this season.
A Rollercoaster Encounter
The game itself was packed with drama. Newcastle took control early, striking twice and forcing Liverpool into survival mode. But Arne Slot’s side, true to their reputation, refused to bow out.
Cody Gakpo emerged as the driving force of Liverpool’s fightback. He dropped deep to link up play, surged forward to break Newcastle’s defense, and even tracked back to win crucial duels. His sharp movement, creativity, and composure in the final third turned the tide of the match.
By the time Nguhoma slotted home the winner, Gakpo had already stamped his authority as the real orchestrator of Liverpool’s comeback.
Why Gakpo Truly Deserved MOTM
The stats told the story:
- Match rating: 9.5/10 – highest on the pitch.
- 2 key passes directly leading to goals.
- 93% pass accuracy under heavy pressure.
- 7 duels won against Newcastle’s physical backline.
His display highlighted exactly why Liverpool fought to sign him – calm under pressure, decisive in big moments, and vital in hostile environments.
Fans React
Supporters took to social media to celebrate Nguhoma’s act of sportsmanship:
- “This is why I love Liverpool – mutual respect and brotherhood.”
- “Nguhoma scored the winner but still gave the award to Gakpo? That’s pure class!”
- “Cody Gakpo was untouchable tonight. MOTM without question.”
Even neutral fans praised the humility on show, saying it epitomized the team spirit that Arne Slot has instilled at Liverpool.
Final Word
Liverpool’s 3-2 victory over Newcastle won’t just be remembered for its late drama, but for Rio Nguhoma’s remarkable gesture. While he grabbed the winner, it was Cody Gakpo’s all-round brilliance that earned the recognition – and thanks to Nguhoma’s humility, the spotlight rightly shifted his way.
For Liverpool, this was more than three points. It was a night where teamwork, respect, and class defined the spirit of the club.
