Alexander Isak's move from Newcastle to Liverpool last season sparked strong emotions among Newcastle supporters. Before the record transfer - the purchase price was equivalent to 1.65 billion kronor - Isak had refused to train with the club from north-east England.
When the 26-year-old returned to his old home ground, St James' Park, for the first time in the Premier League opener, the home supporters chanted "rat, rat, rat".
There were also loud boos every time the Swedish striker touched the ball during the warm-up.
He expected a tough atmosphere so it didn't come as a surprise," said Liverpool coach Andoni Iraola.
Once the match was underway, international teammate Anthony Elanga found himself in the spotlight. In the fifth minute, the Swede ran through on a counterattack and scored the opening goal for Newcastle.
Ten minutes into the second half, Dutchman Cody Gakpo equalised with a long-range shot, but in the 57th minute, substitute Joe Willock made it 2-1 to Newcastle. The Englishman had been on the pitch for less than two minutes before he struck.
Even during the match, Isak had to endure a few things - for example, when he shot high over the goal in a good position, the home crowd cheered loudly.
Isak failed to silence the crowd with a goal, but Liverpool managed to salvage a point. In the sixth minute of added time, the away team was awarded a penalty and Dominik Szoboszlai scored to make it 2-2, which was the final score.
"Isak tried everything and gave us good opportunities with the ball. He also had a couple of chances from the penalty area, but I want to see him continue to fight," says Andoni Iraola.
