Liverpool began their Premier League title defence with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Bournemouth at Anfield, in a match filled with emotional tributes to the late Diogo Jota. The Portuguese forward, who died in a car accident alongside his brother Andre Silva in July, was remembered before, during, and after the game, with players wearing black armbands and fans singing his name throughout.
New signing Hugo Ekitike starred on his league debut, scoring one and setting up Cody Gakpo for another as Liverpool took control. However, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo struck twice in quick succession to level the score, exploiting defensive lapses and unsettling the champions. The game was briefly overshadowed by reports of racist abuse directed at Semenyo, which drew condemnation from pundits.
Liverpool regained their composure late on, with substitute Federico Chiesa volleying home in the 88th minute to restore the lead. Mohamed Salah sealed the win in stoppage time, visibly emotional as he applauded the Kop’s tribute to Jota.
The victory not only secured three opening-day points but also provided a poignant reminder of Jota’s lasting impact on the club and its supporters, setting the tone for an emotional yet determined title defence.Liverpool Edge Bournemouth 4-2 in Emotional Premier League Opener
Liverpool began their Premier League title defence with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Bournemouth at Anfield, in a match filled with emotional tributes to the late Diogo Jota. The Portuguese forward, who died in a car accident alongside his brother Andre Silva in July, was remembered before, during, and after the game, with players wearing black armbands and fans singing his name throughout.
New signing Hugo Ekitike starred on his league debut, scoring one and setting up Cody Gakpo for another as Liverpool took control. However, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo struck twice in quick succession to level the score, exploiting defensive lapses and unsettling the champions. The game was briefly overshadowed by reports of racist abuse directed at Semenyo, which drew condemnation from pundits.
Liverpool regained their composure late on, with substitute Federico Chiesa volleying home in the 88th minute to restore the lead. Mohamed Salah sealed the win in stoppage time, visibly emotional as he applauded the Kop’s tribute to Jota.
The victory not only secured three opening-day points but also provided a poignant reminder of Jota’s lasting impact on the club and its supporters, setting the tone for an emotional yet determined title defence.
