Liverpool defeated Athletic Club 3-2 in the second of two preseason friendlies at Anfield on Monday, with Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo scoring.
After several of Liverpool’s peripheral players had contributed to a 4-1 victory over the Spanish club earlier in the afternoon, head coach Arne Slot picked a completely different side for the late kick-off.
Gakpo and Salah Shine in Friendly Victory
The hosts started strongly, with Gakpo and Florian Wirtz coming close before new signing Hugo Ekitike set up Salah for the opening goal inside 14 minutes.
While Liverpool dominated, Athletic Club levelled in the first half through Oihan Sancet, who took advantage of Slot’s side’s failure to deal with a free kick into the penalty box.
However, Liverpool regained the lead after the break, when Gakpo tapped home after Unai Simón parried Ryan Gravenberch’s long-range attempt.
Athletic Club drew level when Gakpo unintentionally redirected a corner into his own goal. The Netherlands international immediately atoned for his error, netting the winner with a powerful effort that slipped past Simon’s gloves 20 minutes from time, while Salah missed a late penalty.
Doak and Elliott Seal First Match Win
Rio Ngumoha, 16, scored the first goal of the double-header with a magnificent solo effort, continuing his strong preseason form. Within five minutes, the youth turned provider, passing the ball to Darwin Núñez, who scored from close range.
The Premier League champions won thanks to goals from Ben Doak and Harvey Elliott, although Athletic Club narrowed the gap in the second half with a header from Gorka Guruzeta.
“I think in both games we created a lot of chances and scored seven goals, four in the first, three in the second, so that’s very pleasing to see,” Slot told the Liverpool club’s official website.
Key Players Miss Out
Captain Virgil van Dijk was unable to play owing to illness, while defenders Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez were injured. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was also absent, having missed Liverpool’s preseason tour of the Far East last week for personal reasons.
Liverpool will face FA Cup winners Crystal Palace in the FA Community Shield at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, before beginning their Premier League campaign at home against Bournemouth on August 14.
Slot expressed excitement about Liverpool’s new assault this season but also acknowledged the loss of two great players, Diogo Jota and Luis Díaz. However, Liverpool have signed Hugo Ekitike, who will undoubtedly be a valuable addition to their team.
Momentum Ahead of Season Opener
Liverpool’s double win over Athletic Club highlights the squad’s depth and attacking potential under Arne Slot. With young talents stepping up and key players like Salah and Gakpo in form, the Reds are building strong momentum.
