The match ended in a stalemate as Newcastle and Liverpool shared the points in a 2-2 draw, with the club’s co-owner watching on from the stands.
Regardless of the high-profile arrivals and new head coach dominating talk before kickoff, it was three established squad members who stole the spotlight at St James’ Park.
Elanga broke the deadlock by sprinting onto Osula’s pass andSlotting the ball past Alisson to open the scoring.
Wissa then powered through Liverpool’s backline before playing in Willock on the left flank, who shifted the ball inside and bent a shot past Alisson into the far corner.
The display was certain to catch the eye of Jamie Reuben, who occupied the executive boxes on an emotional afternoon featuring commemorations for Kevin Keegan and a reunion with former striker Alexander Isak.
The Newcastle co-owner had been observing the squad during their pre-season preparations in La Manga and maintained his involved approach this summer.
Reuben attended alongside sporting director Ross Wilson and chief executive David Hopkinson ahead of what promises to be a hectic close to the transfer window for the club.
A choice now looms over Willock, who demonstrated his quality in the number 10 position after coming on from the bench. Besiktas are preparing to intensify their pursuit of the ex-Arsenal midfielder this week, and Newcastle must determine whether the 26-year-old has a role to play this campaign or if now represents the optimal moment to capitalise on his sale.
No such deliberations apply to Elanga and Wissa, whose combined transfer fee reached £110million last close season, with both justifying their price tags with standout displays in the season opener.
The duo found life difficult in their initial season at the club but have built on encouraging World Cup showings with their respective national teams through impressive pre-season work, and their contributions against Liverpool should provide everyone associated with the club with optimism that they can deliver the attacking football that prompted Newcastle’s original interest.
Wissa’s display particularly drew praise from his manager, delivering an energetic performance in the attacking midfield role, and appears set for a significant part to play under Jaissle this term – despite the coach believing he should have sealed the victory with a golden opportunity in the closing stages that Alisson blocked from close range.
Jaissle remarked on Wissa’s display, noting the strong performance despite the missed chance and emphasising that his commitment and work rate for his colleagues should form the foundation for Newcastle United.