Liverpool battled back from a second-half scare to defeat Bournemouth 4-2 in their Premier League opener. Late goals from Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah secured the win after Antoine Semenyo’s double had drawn Bournemouth level. Hugo Ekitike impressed on his debut, scoring one and assisting another, as Liverpool began their title defense with a thrilling victory.
Anfield erupted in a crescendo of cheers as Liverpool overcame a spirited Bournemouth side 4-2 in a pulsating Premier League encounter. The match, a rollercoaster of emotions, saw the Reds dig deep to secure a hard-fought victory, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling title defense. Late goals from Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah ultimately sealed the deal, rescuing Liverpool from what looked like a potential upset and sending a clear message to their rivals.
The game began with Liverpool asserting their dominance, fueled by the electric atmosphere of their home ground. New signing Hugo Ekitike, making his Premier League debut, wasted no time in making an impact. The young striker proved to be a livewire, injecting pace and dynamism into the Liverpool attack. His clever movement and incisive runs caused problems for the Bournemouth defense from the outset.
Ekitike's moment arrived just before halftime when he showcased his strength and determination, battling past Marcos Senesi before coolly slotting the ball past Bournemouth goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic. Anfield roared its approval as Liverpool took a deserved lead. The goal was a testament to Ekitike’s raw talent and a sign of things to come for the promising forward.
The second half started with Liverpool continuing their attacking onslaught. Just four minutes after the restart, Ekitike turned provider, delivering a pinpoint pass to Cody Gakpo, who made no mistake in dispatching the ball into the net. At 2-0, Liverpool appeared to be cruising, but Bournemouth had other ideas.
Antoine Semenyo emerged as the hero for the Cherries, single-handedly turning the tide with two stunning goals. His first arrived just after the hour mark, connecting with a brilliant cross from David Brooks to pull one back for Bournemouth. The goal injected new life into the visitors, and they began to believe that an upset was within their grasp.
Semenyo then completed his remarkable turnaround with a sensational solo effort. Picking up the ball midway inside his own half, he embarked on a mazy run, leaving Liverpool defenders trailing in his wake before unleashing an unstoppable shot past Alisson Becker. The Anfield crowd was stunned into silence as Bournemouth leveled the scores at 2-2.
With the game hanging in the balance, Liverpool manager Arne Slot turned to his bench, introducing Federico Chiesa in a bid to inject fresh impetus into the attack. The Italian forward proved to be an inspired substitution, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the 88th minute and volleying home to restore Liverpool's lead. The goal, Chiesa's first in the Premier League, sparked wild celebrations amongst the Liverpool faithful.
As Bournemouth pushed for a late equalizer, Liverpool capitalized on the open space. Mohamed Salah, ever the predator, broke away in stoppage time and calmly slotted the ball past Petrovic, securing the victory for Liverpool and sending them to the top of the early Premier League standings.
The match was played against a backdrop of emotional tributes to the late Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, adding a layer of poignancy to the occasion. Liverpool’s ability to overcome adversity and secure the win served as a fitting tribute to their fallen comrades.
Data Debrief: Ekitike Shines, Salah Matches Cole
While pre-match discussions centered on Liverpool’s potential pursuit of Alexander Isak, it was Hugo Ekitike who stole the show with a memorable Premier League debut. His goal and assist cemented his place in Liverpool’s history books, becoming only the second player to achieve this feat on their debut in the competition, following in the footsteps of Darwin Nunez. At 23 years and 56 days, Ekitike is also the youngest player to score on his first Premier League start for Liverpool since Victor Moses back in 2013.
Mohamed Salah, as always, etched his name further into the record books. His goal extended his Premier League record for goals scored on the opening matchday, becoming the first player to reach double figures with 10 goals. Salah also reached 187 Premier League goals, drawing level with former Manchester United striker Andy Cole as the joint-fourth-highest scorer in the competition’s history.