Liverpool: Dramatic triumph and emotional tribute at the start of the Premier League

Liverpool began the defense of their Premier League title with a dramatic 4-2 victory against Bournemouth, on a night where Anfield paid an emotional tribute to Diogo Jota. Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah’s goals sealed the victory after Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo scored twice in the second half, canceling out goals from Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo.

Emotional Tribute to Jota

In the first competitive match at Anfield since the tragic death of Jota last month, fans sang his name and displayed banners dedicated to the Portuguese striker. A minute of silence was observed in memory of Jota and his brother André Silva, who also died in a car accident in early July. At the end of the game, Salah appeared moved as he applauded the fans who were singing Jota’s name.

Chiesa: A Resurgent Hero

Chiesa could have found a new hero at Anfield. Despite playing only 104 minutes in the Premier League last season, his commitment and temperament, along with his catchy chant, have secured his popularity among Liverpool supporters.

With an impressive volley goal in the 88th minute against Bournemouth, Chiesa could have revived his career at Liverpool. If he stays at Liverpool, he has shown that he can play a valuable role this season.

Szoboszlai: A Midfield Problem

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has a significant problem to solve in midfield. The solution is obvious, but Liverpool has focused so much on attacking players this summer that it might not be as simple as waiting for Ryan Gravenberch’s return. With the international Dutchman suspended for this match, Slot paired Dominik Szoboszlai with Alexis Mac Allister in midfield, behind an attack consisting of Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Gakpo, and Salah. The problem with that selection was evident quickly, as Szoboszlai spent more time attacking than defending, leaving Mac Allister alone in the defensive area. Restoring Gravenberch instead of Szoboszlai would help solve the problem, but that would subtract some of Liverpool’s offensive grit, and the club clearly wants to increase its firepower this season. Liverpool will score many goals this season, but unless they strengthen in midfield, they will also concede many.

Ekitike: A Promising Debut

Ekitike demonstrated in his Premier League debut that he has no intention of being a substitute for anyone this season, regardless of the moves Liverpool makes.

The 22-year-old player, who signed for an initial £69 million last month, had a dream start at Anfield by scoring the first goal against Bournemouth. The Frenchman was annoyed with the opposing defenders and demonstrated an impressive understanding with his new teammates. After a busy summer in the transfer market, Liverpool is the first reigning champion to name four players in their starting eleven who are making their Premier League debut for the club. Ekitike, at least, seems to be off to a promising start on Merseyside.

Semenyo: An Offensive Threat

Semenyo produced an offensive masterclass by scoring two goals for Bournemouth and almost helping the Cherries achieve a surprise draw at Anfield. The 25-year-old Ghanaian international scored twice in 12 minutes to equalize the score at 2-2, before Chiesa and Salah scored late on to secure Liverpool’s 4-2 victory. Semenyo’s performance could attract clubs looking for a striker. He has speed, power and a calm finishing technique, so Bournemouth could have a battle to retain him.

Jota’s Legacy at Anfield

The impact of the passing of Diogo Jota, and that of his brother Andre Silva, has been deeply felt in Merseyside, and the outpouring of love and sadness before Friday night’s match offered further proof of the magnitude of this unimaginable loss. Before the start, fans of both Bournemouth and Liverpool united in a minute of impeccably observed silence, before the supporters raised cards to create mosaics in memory of both players.

Liverpool has already committed to retiring Jota’s number 20 shirt, with several permanent tributes planned for the coming weeks and months. What is clear is that within Anfield, Jota’s legacy will live forever.

VAR: Senesi Escapes Red Card

Marcos Senesi was at the center of the first VAR controversy of the 2025-26 season. The Bournemouth defender avoided a red card despite appearing to prevent a clear goal-scoring opportunity for Ekitike with a deliberate handball. With the match just 13 minutes in, Senesi stopped a Liverpool pass with his hand, just as Ekitike seemed poised to advance and run directly towards Djordje Petrovic in the Bournemouth goal. Referee Anthony Taylor inexplicably awarded a free kick to Bournemouth, and VAR did not intervene to overturn the decision and leave Senesi facing a red card for denying a goalscoring opportunity. Why? Because VAR considered that Ekitike, who was just inside Bournemouth’s half, was too far from the goal to have a clear chance to score.