Liverpool’s Impressive Preseason Performance
Liverpool showcased an impressive performance on Monday, securing a 4-1 victory against Athletic Club during their first preseason friendly at Anfield. The highlight of the match came courtesy of 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who netted a breathtaking solo goal just two minutes into the game, demonstrating his potential after already making waves with a goal against Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan last week.
Match Highlights
In addition to Ngumoha’s brilliant strike, the home team saw contributions from Darwin Núñez, Ben Doak, and Harvey Elliott, while Gorka Guruzeta managed to score the visitors’ only goal.
Tribute to Diogo Jota
This match was particularly poignant, marking Liverpool’s return to Anfield following the tragic loss of striker Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva. In a touching tribute, wreaths were laid by former Liverpool captain Phil Thompson and Athletic Club president Jon Uriarte in front of the Kop before kickoff. Throughout the match, supporters chanted Jota’s song, and a period of applause in the 20th minute honored his jersey number, which Liverpool announced last month would be retired.
Match Summary
Despite head coach Arne Slot opting to rest several first-team players for the encounter, Liverpool quickly established control. After Ngumoha’s early goal, he assisted Núñez just three minutes later with a well-placed header. Athletic Club threatened to respond when Andoni Gorosabel’s shot rattled the crossbar, but Liverpool extended their lead with Doak’s shot trickling in just before halftime.
In the second half, Guruzeta’s attempt prompted a great save from Liverpool’s Ármin Pécsi, but the home team soon added another goal through Elliott, assisted by Núñez. Guruzeta eventually found the net for Athletic Club in the 76th minute, but it was little consolation.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, both teams are set to unveil new lineups for the second friendly on Monday night. Liverpool will be without captain Virgil van Dijk due to illness and Conor Bradley, who is sidelined with an injury. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker will also miss out, having departed the preseason tour in the Far East for personal reasons.
