Liverpool’s Bright Future: Ngumoha’s Stunner and Ekitike’s Debut Assist Seal Dominant Wins Over Athletic Bilbao

 Liverpool wrapped up an entertaining double-header of pre-season friendlies at Anfield with two impressive wins over Athletic Club Bilbao, where both senior stars and emerging talents shone.

           

           

In the first match, 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha stole the show with a stunning solo goal just two minutes in, launching a dominant display from Liverpool's youngsters. Ngumoha then turned provider, assisting Darwin Núñez for Liverpool’s second goal. Further strikes from Ben Doak and Harvey Elliott secured a convincing 4-1 victory, with remarkable attacking flair and technical confidence on display. Ngumoha, in particular, has been lauded as “ridiculous” by his teammates for his impact and poise well beyond his years.

The second game featured a more established Liverpool lineup, but it was another new face who made the difference: Hugo Ekitike. Making his Anfield debut, Ekitike notched his first assist for the club with a sharp pull-back to set up Mohamed Salah’s opener. The match turned into a goal-fest, with Cody Gakpo scoring twice—including atoning for an earlier own goal—sealing Liverpool’s 3-2 win. Salah, Gakpo, and new signings Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong all impressed with creativity and determination, even as defensive lapses kept the contest competitive.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised both Ekitike and Ngumoha for their attacking contributions, highlighting the side’s ability to “create a lot of chances,” while also noting areas for defensive improvement ahead of the new season. The matches were emotionally charged, with tributes paid in the 20th minute to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva following their tragic passing.

Key highlights:

•Rio Ngumoha: spectacular solo goal; assist for Núñez.

•Hugo Ekitike: first Liverpool assist, teeing up Salah.

•Cody Gakpo: brace in second match, including match winner.

•Liverpool’s attack looked dynamic with new arrivals and youngsters.

•Defending set pieces remains an area to tighten up before competitive action resumes.

•In summary, Liverpool’s blend of experienced stars and emerging prodigies produced thrilling football, boding well for the coming season and giving fans a glimpse of a bright, attack-minded future.