Liverpool kicked off their Premier League title defence with a dramatic late victory over Bournemouth in an emotional night at Anfield dedicated to the memory of Diogo Jota.
Jota, who tragically passed away alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident in early July, was remembered before, during, and after the match. Supporters sang his song throughout, while players wore black armbands. Manager Arne Slot described the tributes as “truly special.”
The Reds looked sharp in the opening hour, scoring once before and once after the break. Hugo Ekitike, making his Premier League debut, stole the spotlight with a goal of his own and an assist for Cody Gakpo.
However, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo — who earlier reported an incident of racist abuse from a spectator — turned the game on its head, scoring twice in 12 second-half minutes from rapid counterattacks. Jamie Carragher criticised Liverpool’s “lack of balance” during this spell.
Liverpool’s resilience shone through late on. Substitute Federico Chiesa fired home in the 88th minute to restore their lead, and Mohamed Salah sealed the win deep into stoppage time, ensuring a victorious but emotional start to their campaign.
