Liverpool began the defence of their Premier League crown with a dramatic 4-2 victory over Bournemouth at Anfield, on a night marked by moving tributes to the late Diogo Jota.
Jota, who tragically died alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident in early July, was honoured before, during, and after the game.
Liverpool players wore black armbands, the Kop sang his song throughout, and a visibly emotional Mohamed Salah stayed on the pitch long after full-time, applauding supporters as they serenaded his former team-mate.
Manager Arne Slot in his post match interview described the commemorations as “so impressive and powerful.”
Match Summary
Liverpool looked sharp for the first hour, scoring a goal either side of half-time and appearing in full control. New signing Hugo Ekitike impressed on his Premier League debut, scoring once and setting up Cody Gakpo for the other.
However, defensive frailties resurfaced—similar to those exposed in the FA Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace—as Antoine Semenyo struck twice in 12 minutes from rapid counter-attacks.
The Bournemouth forward, who earlier in the game reported racist abuse from a supporter, gave debutant left-back Milos Kerkez a torrid time.
With the score level at 2-2, Liverpool dug deep. Substitute Federico Chiesa marked his league debut with an 88th-minute volley to restore the lead before Mohamed Salah sealed the win deep into stoppage time, sending Anfield into raptures.
Post-Match Talking Points
Racist abuse incident: The match was overshadowed by the abuse reported by Semenyo, which Sports pundits Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher condemned as “despicable” and “shocking.”
Defensive inbalance: Former defender Carragher also criticised Slot’s side for “a lack of balance” at the back despite their attacking brilliance.
Ekitike’s bright start: The Frenchman’s pace and movement offered a glimpse of Liverpool’s future frontline dynamics —a performance that earned him Liverpool’s player of the match award.
Liverpool will hope the win serves as both a strong statement in their title defence and a fitting tribute to Jota, whose presence was felt throughout a night that was as emotional as it was eventful.