Liverpool’s Premier League title defence got off to a thrilling start at Anfield as they fought off a second-half fightback from Bournemouth to claim a 4-2 victory.
Fans were treated to a rollercoaster evening of football, with goals, drama, and standout performances making it a memorable opener.
Ekitike and Gakpo Fire Reds Ahead
The action kicked off with Liverpool taking the lead thanks to new signing Hugo Ekitike, who netted his second goal in as many competitive appearances.
Ekitike had also scored in last week’s FA Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace, and his early strike set the tone for the home side.
Shortly before the interval, Cody Gakpo doubled Liverpool’s advantage, slicing through Bournemouth’s defence with a confident finish in the 49th minute.
At this point, it looked like the champions were in full control.
Bournemouth Strike Back with Semenyo Double
However, Bournemouth refused to roll over. Antoine Semenyo emerged as a real thorn in Liverpool’s side, scoring twice in just 13 minutes to level the match.
The Ghanaian forward’s movement and sharpness tested the Reds’ defence and briefly threatened to snatch a draw from the hosts.
Chiesa and Salah Restore Order
Liverpool responded in style. Federico Chiesa, coming off the bench, put the Reds back in front with a crucial goal to make it 3-2.
Later, Mohamed Salah sealed the win with a composed finish, restoring Liverpool’s two-goal cushion and putting the result beyond doubt.
Liverpool Player Ratings
Alisson – 5.5: Rarely troubled but had to stay alert to keep Bournemouth’s early chances at bay.
Jeremie Frimpong – 6: Exciting on the right flank, though not quite at his best tonight. Defended solidly.
Ibrahima Konate – 5: Nervy start with a couple of heavy touches, improved slightly later but overall a shaky outing.
Virgil van Dijk – 6: Recovered from a hesitant beginning to deliver a commanding performance.
Milos Kerkez – 5: Struggled going forward and occasionally out of position defensively.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 6.5: Much improved from the Community Shield, putting in a solid shift off the ball.
Alexis Mac Allister – 7.5: Key figure in midfield, providing control and creativity missed during his injury absence.
Mohamed Salah – 7.5: Looked lively throughout, taking his goal brilliantly as expected.
Florian Wirtz – 6.5: Not at his most creative but contributed with clever touches and movement.
Cody Gakpo – 7.5: Excellent second-half finish and a reminder of his importance despite new arrivals.
Hugo Ekitike – 8 (MOTM): Deserved man of the match for a superb goal and an all-round confident performance.
Substitutes: Endo (5.5), Robertson (6), Jones (6), Gomez (6), Chiesa (used later to score).
Bournemouth Player Ratings
Djordje Petrovic – 6: Commanded his area well but couldn’t stop Liverpool’s goals.
Adam Smith – 6: Impressive attacking bursts, troubling Liverpool on the right flank.
Bafode Diakite – 5: Premier League debut tough against Ekitike; struggled in duels.
Marcos Senesi – 6: Lucky to stay on for a handball incident; had defensive lapses.
Adrien Truffert – 7.5: Outstanding on the left, contributing both offensively and defensively.
Tyler Adams – 6.5: Effective off the ball in tracking Liverpool’s midfield.
Alex Scott – 6: Steady presence, returning to regular football after injury.
David Brooks – 6.5: Delivered a brilliant assist for Semenyo and added energy.
Marcus Tavernier – 6: Missed a key chance to give Bournemouth the lead early on.
Antoine Semenyo – 8: Two excellent goals showing timing, skill, and individual brilliance.
Evanilson – 6.5: Threatened Liverpool’s goal several times, including a glancing header.
Substitutes: Traore (6), Winterburn, Hill, Kroupi (minimal impact).
Referee Performance
Anthony Taylor – 5: Controversy over a missed handball by Senesi left many fans frustrated.