Philippe Coutinho’s Long-Distance Goal Helps LFC Beat Southampton (GIF)

Either through magic or sheer graft, Philippe Coutinho scored one of the best goals of his Liverpool career.

Coutinho scored in the third minute of Liverpool’s Premier League game against Southampton on Sunday. Coutinho’s long-range strike ultimately stood as the game-winner, as Liverpool earned a 2-0 win over the Saints at Saint Mary’s Stadium.

Coutinho’s goal was a solo effort. The Brazilian received a pass 35 yards from Southampton’s goal, turned and launched a shot toward the top corner of the goal. Coutinho’s effort beat goalkeeper Fraser Forster, ricocheted off the crossbar and went into the goal.

Coutinho’s Liverpool teammates have dubbed him “the little magician.” He is capable of producing moments of supreme quality, but he might have conjured up this particular goal on the practice field.

After Coutinho signed a new contract with Liverpool earlier this month, manager Brendan Rodgers challenged the 22-year-old to increase his scoring output. Coutinho now has scored twice in six games since putting pen to paper. He only had scored two goals in his first 31 games this season.

Be it magic, toil or both, it all seems to be working for Coutinho.

Thumbnail photo via LiverpoolFC.com