Liverpool score late double to see off Bournemouth in season opener.
Liverpool kicked off their Premier League title defense with a thrilling late win against Bournemouth at Anfield. The Reds left it late but secured a 3-2 victory in front of an electrified home crowd.
Emotional Start at Anfield
Before kick-off, Anfield paid tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva with a moving silence. Supporters displayed banners and sang You’ll Never Walk Alone in unison, creating a powerful atmosphere.
Early Controversy and Missed Calls
The match started at a frantic pace. Liverpool pushed forward but Bournemouth also threatened on the counter.
A controversial moment arrived when Marcos Senesi appeared to handle the ball to stop Hugo Ekitike’s run. Referee Anthony Taylor waved play on despite protests, leaving Liverpool manager Arne Slot furious on the sidelines.
Ekitike Opens His Account
Liverpool’s new signing, Hugo Ekitike, made an immediate impact. In the 39th minute, the young striker finished from close range to score his first Premier League goal. Anfield erupted as the champions took the lead into half-time.
Gakpo Doubles the Lead
Straight after the restart, Liverpool struck again. Cody Gakpo produced a superb solo run and calmly slotted home in the 48th minute. At 2-0, the Reds looked in complete control and ready to cruise to victory.
Semenyo Sparks Bournemouth Comeback
Bournemouth refused to fold. Antoine Semenyo turned the game on its head with two quick goals.
First, in the 70th minute, he finished off a rapid counter-attack from close range. Just minutes later, he struck again with a powerful breakaway effort, becoming the first player of the season to score a brace.
The winger stunned Anfield, and suddenly the game stood level at 2-2.
Chiesa Becomes the Hero
Liverpool fans feared a frustrating draw, but substitute Federico Chiesa had other ideas.
In the 89th minute, the Italian winger volleyed home brilliantly in front of the Kop. His strike gave Liverpool a late 3-2 lead and sent supporters wild.
Salah Seals It in Style
As Bournemouth chased an equaliser in stoppage time, Liverpool broke again. Mohamed Salah capped the night with a stunning strike in the 96th minute. His goal ensured a dramatic opening-day victory for the Reds.
Key Moments That Shaped the Match
- Ekitike’s Debut Goal: The striker announced himself in style with Liverpool’s opener.
- Gakpo’s Solo Effort: His goal looked set to seal the game early in the second half.
- Semenyo’s Double: The Bournemouth winger nearly stole the headlines with a superb brace.
- Chiesa’s Volley: The substitute proved decisive with a late strike.
- Salah’s Stoppage-Time Finish: The Egyptian ended all doubt with a trademark goal.
A Fierce Beginning to the Season
The 2025/26 Premier League season could not have started with more drama. Liverpool showed resilience to overcome Bournemouth’s fightback. Antoine Semenyo’s performance stood out for the visitors, while Liverpool’s new-look attack shone under pressure.
Arne Slot’s side begin the campaign with three points but were reminded that defending the title will not be easy. Bournemouth, despite the loss, showed they can trouble even the best sides in the league.
Liverpool march on, but the season opener proved that every point will be hard-earned in the Premier League this year.
