Liverpool wrapped up their pre-season preparations with a pair of victories over Athletic Club in a double-header at Anfield, showcasing promising performances from young sensation Rio Nguhoma and summer signing Hugo Ekitike. The Reds secured a 4-1 win in the first match before edging a 3-2 triumph in the second, just days before their Community Shield clash against Crystal Palace.
The evening carried an emotional tone as the club honored Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away alongside his brother Andre Silva. Fans rose in the 20th minute of both games to applaud and sing his name, creating a poignant atmosphere throughout the stadium.
### **First Match: Nguhoma Steals the Show**
Teenager Rio Nguhoma continued his impressive pre-season form with a goal and an assist within the opening five minutes. The 16-year-old curled in a fine opener before setting up Darwin Núñez for the second. His teammate Ben Doak praised Nguhoma post-match, saying, *"That guy is ridiculous—he’s going to have an incredible career ahead of him!"*
Liverpool’s dominance was further extended when Doak’s cross was fumbled into the net by goalkeeper Alex Padilla, while Harvey Elliott sealed the win with a composed finish. Athletic Club managed a consolation through Gorka Guruzeta, but the Reds’ attacking flair proved decisive.
### **Second Match: Ekitike and Gakpo Star**
Manager Arne Slot fielded a stronger lineup in the second fixture, featuring debutants Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez. Ekitike quickly made his mark by setting up Mohamed Salah for the opener, showcasing his promising link-up play.
Despite controlling the game, Liverpool’s defense was exposed when Oihan Sancet equalized, and further goals from Cody Gakpo—including an own goal—kept the match tense. The Dutch forward ultimately sealed the win with a late header, securing a 3-2 victory.
### **Injury Concerns Ahead of Season Opener**
While the double-header provided optimism, Slot confirmed that Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker would miss out due to illness and personal reasons. The manager also hinted at fitness doubts over Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez ahead of their Premier League opener against Bournemouth on August 15.
**"In both games, we created a lot of chances,"** Slot reflected. **"We scored seven goals, which is pleasing. Hugo will be a good player for us, and Rio is showing great things."** The Dutchman admitted that set-piece defending must improve before their Community Shield meeting with Palace next week.
Liverpool’s pre-season has ended on a high note, with their young talents and new signings offering a glimpse of what’s to come in the upcoming campaign.
**Next Fixtures:**
- **August 10:** Crystal Palace (Community Shield) – Wembley, 3 PM BST
- **August 15:** Bournemouth (Premier League) – Anfield, 8 PM BST (Live on Sky Sports)
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