Merseyside | Liverpool start title defence with a win

Liverpool 4 - 2 Bournemouth

Liverpool left it late to begin the defence of their Premier League title with a win over Bournemouth on an emotional evening.

Author | William G

Stadium | Anfield

The match was played against a poignant backdrop as tributes were paid to Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who died in a car crash in July. A minute’s silence was observed before kick-off, followed by applause in the 20th minute in honour of Jota’s shirt number.

Arne Slot handed first league starts to four of his summer signings and it was Hugo Ekitike, a £70m arrival from Eintracht Frankfurt, who made the breakthrough with a calm finish eight minutes before half-time. Ekitike then turned creator, setting up Cody Gakpo to double the lead shortly after the restart.

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The game was halted in the first half when Antoine Semenyo reported being racially abused from the stands. The Bournemouth forward responded with admirable resilience, pulling a goal back just after the hour before levelling with a sharp finish 14 minutes from time.

Bournemouth looked set to claim a point until Federico Chiesa struck his first Premier League goal in the 88th minute, with Mohamed Salah adding a fourth soon after to seal victory in front of the Kop.

Defensive frailties continue for Slot's side

Liverpool’s defensive frailties, evident during pre-season and in the Community Shield, were laid bare again by Bournemouth’s sharpness.

With Ryan Gravenberch suspended, Liverpool’s midfield was left stretched, while the attacking instincts of new full-back pairing Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez opened space on the flanks.

Bournemouth capitalised with their second goal, Antoine Semenyo’s well-taken equaliser that quietened Anfield. It was a moment of individual quality but also a worrying reminder of the champions’ vulnerability.

Bournemouth reaction

The visitors’ display drew widespread praise and, although it did not bring the three points, there were clear positives for Iraola to reflect on.

Jamie, a Bournemouth fan who was in the away end, said: “Considering all the changes we’ve made, that was a good performance from us. Pity we couldn’t hold out for the draw, but a lot of promising signs.”

Adam, another fan, added: “A great game, even if we couldn’t get a result. Onwards and upwards, and looking forward to seeing how the new players develop over the season.”