Liverpool began the 2025–26 Premier League season with a thrilling 4–2 victory over Bournemouth at Anfield on Friday night.
Before kick-off, an emotional tribute was held for the late Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident alongside his brother André earlier this summer. Liverpool had announced that Jota’s shirt number 20 had been permanently retired in his honour, with fans, players, and staff observing a moment of silence.
Debutant Hugo Ekitike opened the scoring before Cody Gakpo doubled the lead early in the second half. Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo then struck twice to level the match, sparking hopes of an upset. However, substitute Federico Chiesa restored Liverpool’s advantage with his first goal in English football, and Mohamed Salah sealed the win in stoppage time.
Bournemouth came into the game weakened, having lost three of their starting defenders and their first-choice goalkeeper during the summer transfer window. Despite showing fight through Semenyo’s brace, the defensive gaps were exposed by Liverpool’s attack.
Liverpool, last season’s champions, have made their intentions clear—they are targeting back-to-back Premier League titles under Arne Slot’s leadership.
The game was briefly paused after Semenyo reported racial abuse from the crowd, prompting an official investigation by the Premier League.
Opening Weekend Fixtures
This weekend offers early tests for newly promoted clubs Leeds United, Burnley, and Sunderland, while Manchester United vs Arsenal promises a blockbuster Sunday clash at Old Trafford. Wolves face champions Manchester City in a tough Saturday evening contest, and Aston Villa host Newcastle in a battle of European hopefuls.
The 2025–26 season also introduces semi-automated offside technology across all matches, aiming to make officiating decisions faster and more accurate.
