Liverpool open dem Premier League title defence with 4-2 win over Bournemouth, but na alleged racism incident wey spoil the shine for Anfield opening day.
How E Take Happen
First 30 minutes suppose dey about football fireworks, but headlines turn another thing. Marcos Senesi escape punishment for handball, and Bournemouth striker Antoine Semenyo yan referee say somebody from crowd drop racist comment.
Liverpool miss early chances but still breakthrough as Hugo Ekitike tap home after lucky deflection from Senesi – the first Premier League goal of the season. Few minutes later, Ekitike turn provider as he set up Cody Gakpo to make am 2-0.
But Liverpool backline weak and Bournemouth no gree. Semenyo reply with two sharp goals – one poacher finish and one mad solo strike – to level the match 2-2.
Just as Bournemouth dey smell upset, Federico Chiesa volley put Liverpool back ahead, and of course, Mohamed Salah seal the deal late on with his opening day customary goal.
TPB Verdict
Game sweet wella for football eye, but off-pitch story no pure. Liverpool defence shaky, Bournemouth defence scatter, so goals dey guaranteed. Ekitike and Gakpo show promise, but Slot men still raise question marks.
As for Semenyo – two goals plus everything wey happen to am – the guy no deserve loss. If the racist matter prove true, authorities suppose handle am strong.
Highlights
- 37’ – Hugo Ekitike: Lucky bounce, calm finish. Liverpool 1-0 Bournemouth.
- 49’ – Cody Gakpo: Neat touch, bottom corner strike. Liverpool 2-0 Bournemouth.
- 64’ – Antoine Semenyo: Quick run inside box, one-time finish. Liverpool 2-1 Bournemouth.
- 76’ – Antoine Semenyo: Solo run from half line, left-foot strike. Liverpool 2-2 Bournemouth.
- 88’ – Federico Chiesa: Volley after poor clearance. Liverpool 3-2 Bournemouth.
- 90+4’ – Mohamed Salah: Cool finish bottom corner. Liverpool 4-2 Bournemouth.
Man of the Match – Antoine Semenyo
Ekitike play well, but na Semenyo carry spotlight. Despite racist wahala, he still show speed, skills and two sweet goals wey nearly shock Liverpool. Real baller.
Match Stats
- Possession: Liverpool 61% – 39% Bournemouth
- Shots: Liverpool 19 – 10 Bournemouth
- On Target: Liverpool 10 – 3 Bournemouth
- Corners: Liverpool 6 – 7 Bournemouth
- Fouls: Liverpool 7 – 10 Bournemouth
What Next?
Liverpool next game na away vs Newcastle on August 25. Bournemouth go face Wolves next Saturday before EFL Cup clash against Brentford.