Liverpool’s new teenage sensation, Rio Chima Ngumoha, has etched his name into Anfield folklore after scoring a stunning 100th-minute winner in their dramatic 3-2 victory over Newcastle United on Monday night.

The 16-year-old forward, who was introduced in the 94th minute with the game tied at 2-2, produced a moment of magic, curling home a composed finish to secure all three points for the Reds. In doing so, Ngumoha became Liverpool’s youngest-ever Premier League goalscorer.

Liverpool had taken the lead through Ryan Gravenberch’s strike before Anthony Gordon’s red card left Newcastle rattled. Hugo Ekitike added a second early in the second half, but Newcastle clawed their way back with goals from Bruno Guimarães and substitute William Osula, setting the stage for a grandstand finish.

With almost the last kick of the game, Dominik Szoboszlai cleverly stepped over a cross, leaving Ngumoha to calmly sweep the ball past the keeper—sparking wild celebrations.

Nigerian Roots, Dual Nationality

Ngumoha, born in England to Nigerian parents, has already represented England at youth level, but remains eligible to play for Nigeria at senior level. This opens up a fresh tug-of-war between the Three Lions and the Super Eagles, similar to past cases involving Bukayo Saka, Tammy Abraham, and Fikayo Tomori.

Opinion: Should Nigeria Make Their Move Early?

Moments like these highlight why countries like Nigeria cannot afford to hesitate in securing young talents with dual nationality. Ngumoha is only 16, but football history is filled with stories of teenagers who blossomed into world-class stars after being trusted early.

For Liverpool, Ngumoha’s emergence is a dream scenario—he symbolizes their faith in youth development under Arne Slot. But for Nigeria, this should serve as a wake-up call. The Super Eagles have often been criticized for waiting too long before approaching players, only to watch them commit to other nations.

If nurtured right, Ngumoha could be a generational talent. Imagine him linking up with Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman in Nigeria’s attack—speed, flair, and goals in abundance. But that will only happen if the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is proactive, persuasive, and strategic.

For now, Anfield is buzzing about their new wonderkid, but across Nigeria, fans will be hoping this historic moment is just the beginning of a journey that leads him to wear the green and white.