Liverpool kicked off their 2025/26 Premier League title defense with a dramatic 4-2 victory against AFC Bournemouth at Anfield on Friday, August 15, 2025. The match, charged with emotion, saw the Reds overcome a resilient Bournemouth side in a six-goal spectacle.

New signing Hugo Ekitike opened the scoring in the 37th minute and assisted Cody Gakpo’s goal in the 49th, putting Liverpool in a commanding position. However, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo fought back with two goals in the 64th and 76th minutes, leveling the score and stunning the Anfield crowd. Late heroics from substitute Federico Chiesa, who scored in the 88th minute, and Mohamed Salah, who sealed the win in the 94th minute, ensured Liverpool claimed all three points.

The match was briefly halted in the first half after Semenyo reported racial abuse from a spectator, an incident now under investigation. Pre-game tributes honored Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who tragically passed away in a car crash in July, adding an emotional layer to the night.

Under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool showcased their attacking prowess, with new signings Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, and Jeremie Frimpong impressing on their Premier League debuts. Bournemouth, led by Andoni Iraola, showed great character but couldn’t overcome Liverpool’s late surge.