Liverpool secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Athletic Club in their preseason friendly at Anfield, with 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha starring for the home side. Ngumoha opened the scoring within two minutes with a stunning strike from outside the box, curling the ball past Athletic goalkeeper Álex Padilla after a superb winning of ball higher up pitch by Alexis Mac Allister. Just three minutes later, Ngumoha provided the assist for Darwin Núñez's goal, demonstrating his continued strong preseason form and making a significant impact for Liverpool's defending Premier League champions.
The match paused at the 20-minute mark to pay tribute to late former Liverpool player Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who both passed away recently, marking a poignant moment for players and fans alike. Liverpool then extended their lead through an own goal by Padilla just before halftime after a right-footed shot by teenager Ben Doak created pressure on the Athletic defense.
After the break, Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott added a fourth, solidifying the dominant performance before Athletic Club pulled a goal back through Guruzeta in the 76th minute. The home team maintained control throughout, with academy talent Ben Doak and Ngumoha particularly impressive, the former also heavily involved in the build-up play and direct attacking threat. This game marked the first of two consecutive preseason friendlies against Athletic Club at Anfield.
Manager Arne Slot will be encouraged by the performances of his young talents, especially Ngumoha whose goal and assist highlighted his readiness to compete at senior level this season. The fixture offered a glimpse of Liverpool’s depth and potential as they prepare for the upcoming campaign, blending promising youth with experienced campaigners effectively.
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