Liverpool Triumphs Over Athletic Club 4-1 in Preseason Friendly

Liverpool, England – Liverpool FC celebrated a commanding 4-1 victory against Athletic Club in the first of two preseason friendlies at Anfield on Monday. The encounter marked an emotional return to the stadium following the tragic passing of striker Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, as tributes were paid during the match.

Sixteen-year-old Rio Ngumoha opened the scoring for the home side just two minutes into the game with a stunning solo effort, curling his shot into the far corner. Ngumoha quickly turned provider three minutes later, assisting Darwin Núñez to double Liverpool’s lead.

Despite some attempts from Athletic Club, including a shot that rattled the crossbar, Liverpool struck again before halftime when Ben Doak‘s low shot went under the visiting goalkeeper Alex Padilla. The hosts went into the break with a 3-0 advantage.

As the second half began, Guruzeta from Athletic Club forced Liverpool’s substitute goalkeeper Armin Pecsi into a sprawling save. Liverpool extended their lead to 4-0 when Harvey Elliott netted after Núñez set him up inside the box.

Athletic Club managed to pull one back in the 76th minute through a header from Guruzeta, but it was merely a consolation for the visitors. The match drew an attendance of 59,774 fans.

Both teams are set to meet again for a second friendly later in the night, providing more valuable minutes for players ahead of the upcoming season.