Newcastle’s last-gasp Liverpool draw reignites Al Ahli criticism of Jaissle

Matthias Jaissle’s first match in charge of Newcastle United ended in controversy as his side surrendered a late lead against Liverpool, drawing 2-2 in the opening round of the Premier League and prompting renewed criticism from supporters of his former club, Al Ahli.

Newcastle appeared set to claim victory until the sixth minute of added time, when Liverpool were awarded a penalty. Dominic Szoboszlai converted from the spot to rescue a point for the visitors and leave the home side stunned.

The equaliser sparked anger and frustration inside the stadium, with Newcastle having been on course for a significant win in Jaissle’s first competitive match as manager.

Jaissle and members of his coaching staff repeatedly protested against decisions during the match, while supporters reacted strongly to several of the game’s key incidents. However, the most prominent response came away from the stadium on X, where Al Ahli fans used the result to renew their criticism of the German coach.

Many Al Ahli supporters have not forgotten that Jaissle left the club only a few days before the start of the new season. His departure caused widespread anger among the fanbase, particularly because he had been regarded as one of the central figures in the project that led the Saudi club to win the AFC Champions League Elite and the Saudi Super Cup.

The late draw gave those supporters fresh material to mock their former manager. Some viewed Jaissle’s opening result at Newcastle as far from ideal, arguing that the way his team conceded two points in the closing moments reflected concerns that had surrounded his decision to leave Jeddah.

Although this was only Jaissle’s first match with Newcastle, Al Ahli fans treated the outcome as an opportunity to respond to his decision to move to the Premier League rather than remain in charge of the club for the new campaign.

The German coach’s departure remains a sensitive issue among Al Ahli supporters, who continue to express their anger online. The timing of the Liverpool equaliser intensified that reaction, turning what had looked like an impressive opening victory for Newcastle into a night of early scrutiny for Jaissle.

It would nevertheless be premature to judge Jaissle’s Newcastle tenure on the basis of one match. His team produced strong spells against Liverpool and came close to securing a major victory. Yet the manner of the late draw ensured that his first appearance in the Newcastle dugout immediately attracted attention, while the frustration of Al Ahli supporters over his exit showed no sign of fading.