Nigeria-eligible forward Ngumoha battles Salah, 9 others for Liverpool's Goal of the Month

Liverpool’s teenage prospect Rio Ngumoha has been shortlisted for the club’s Goal of the Month award for August 2025, putting him alongside senior stars including Mohamed Salah in a 11-man field of contenders.

The 17-year-old forward, who is eligible to play for Nigeria through his heritage, rose to prominence with a dramatic stoppage-time winner against Newcastle United. 

At 16 years and 361 days, he became the youngest goalscorer in Liverpool’s history, sealing a 3-2 victory at St. James’ Park.

His decisive strike came in the 100th minute, when he calmly converted Salah’s low cross after a clever dummy from Dominik Szoboszlai. 

The moment not only clinched three points in a high-intensity Premier League clash but also showcased Ngumoha’s maturity under pressure, drawing plaudits from manager Arne Slot and senior teammates.

Ngumoha, who joined Liverpool from Chelsea’s academy in 2024, has represented England at youth level but remains eligible for Nigeria. 

His rapid emergence has already sparked discussions about his international future, while Liverpool fans have embraced him as a rising star.

Among the other nominees for the monthly accolade are Salah’s sharp finish against Bournemouth, Szoboszlai’s thunderous free-kick against Arsenal, and a series of goals from summer signing Hugo Ekitike, who found the net against Crystal Palace and Newcastle.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: liverpooolfc.com 

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