Anfield witnessed a rollercoaster season opener as Liverpool overcame Bournemouth 4-2 in a match marked by Hugo Ekitike's stellar debut, defensive frailties, and an emotional tribute to late striker Diogo Jota.
Ekitike paid homage to Diogo Jota after scoring on his Premier League debut
The evening began with heartfelt remembrances for Jota, who died in a July car accident alongside his brother. Fans unveiled banners declaring "Anfield will always be your home", while a minute's applause erupted in the 20th minute for the former No. 20.
New signing Ekitike seized the spotlight, breaking the deadlock with a clinical first-half finish before assisting Cody Gakpo's goal. The £70m recruit from Eintracht Frankfurt nearly claimed a hat-trick, missing two headers, but his composure contrasted sharply with predecessor Darwin Núñez's frenetic style. His tribute to Jota – forming a '20' with his hands after scoring – drew roaring approval from the Kop.
Despite the victory, Liverpool's defensive frailties resurfaced. Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo capitalized on slack midfield marking to net a breathtaking 50-yard solo equalizer, exposing vulnerabilities left by suspended Ryan Gravenberch and attack-minded full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez.
Semenyo scored twice amid reporting alleged racial abuse from the crowd
The match was briefly halted in the first half when Semenyo reported racist abuse from the stands, prompting widespread condemnation. The Ghanaian responded with a brace that nearly earned Bournemouth a point before late strikes from Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah sealed Liverpool's win.
Manager Arne Slot now faces tactical dilemmas, balancing £300m worth of new signings with established stars. While Ekitike's performance raised questions about Liverpool's pursuit of Newcastle's Alexander Isak, defensive concerns loom large as the champions aim to retain their crown.
As fireworks lit Merseyside skies, the night encapsulated football's extremes – moments of brilliance, lingering systemic issues, and the unifying power of tributes to lost heroes.
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