In the second of Liverpool’s double-header against Athletic Club, the Reds walked out 3-2 victors in their final pre-season game before the new campaign kicks off on Sunday against Crystal Palace at Wembley.
A fully changed and more experienced starting 11 gave fans at Anfield their first chance to see their new attacking lineup, including summer signings Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike.
Here are five things we learnt from Liverpool’s second match of the day.
Mohammed Salah is still the main man
Even in a pre-season setting, Mohamed Salah has reminded everyone exactly why he’s still Liverpool’s go to man in the final third. In what was the final friendly before the competitive season begins, Salah got off the mark with a typically composed finish, guiding the ball into the bottom corner after a clever low cut-back from new signing Hugo Ekitike.
The goal itself was classic Salah sharp movement in the box, a calm first touch, and a clinical end product. More than the goal, though, it was the signs of chemistry developing between Salah and new arrival Florian Wirtz that caught the eye. The pair looked increasingly comfortable linking up, suggesting that Salah could thrive with the added creativity behind him this season this performance was a timely reminder Salah still operates at an elite level.
On the 81st minute the Egyptian was given the opportunity for a brace with a penalty but went with the chip option and blazed it over the crossbar.
Hugo Ekitike’s Anfield debut
This was exactly the kind of performance the 22-year-old would have wanted to introduce himself to the Anfield crowd. In just 56 minutes, the young forward showed why Liverpool moved for him lively, intelligent in his movement, and constantly looking to link play.
His assist for Salah’s opener was well-crafted — a driven low cross into the box that showed awareness and precision. Ekitike didn’t just drift through the game; he was involved, proactive, and purposeful in everything he did. Replaced by Federico Chiesa just before the hour mark, Ekitike left the pitch having delivered a very encouraging first impression. If this is a taste of what’s to come, Liverpool may have found themselves a real gem.
Cody Gakpo’s double and misfortune
It was a rollercoaster of a night for Cody Gakpo, who delivered a performance that combined misfortune with moments of real quality. The Dutch forward was heavily involved throughout, showing his usual work ethic down the left flank while continuing to build his on-pitch understanding with Milos Kerkez.
His first goal was all about awareness and reaction after Simon parried a stinging effort from Gravenberch, Gakpo was quickest to respond, tucking away the rebound and celebrating with a nod to Diogo Jota’s iconic baby shark gesture. But just as he looked to be enjoying himself, misfortune struck. Bilbao’s equaliser came from a corner where Gakpo, stationed at the near post, unintentionally diverted the ball into his own net via his face — completely unaware and unable to react.
To his credit, the 26-year-old responded in exactly the right way. He restored Liverpool’s lead with a powerful, driving run inside from the left and a low strike that squirmed under Simon. It wasn’t the cleanest finish, and the goalkeeper should have done better, but the intent and execution from Gakpo were clear.
Cody at the double ? pic.twitter.com/1kAdKOEqDp
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) August 4, 2025
Two goals, another at the wrong end, and a tireless performance capped off an eventful evening for Gakpo, one that underlined both his threat in front of goal and his willingness to shoulder attacking responsibility.
More weakness in defence
While Liverpool’s attacking play was fluid and full of promise, the defensive side of the performance showed familiar vulnerabilities. Conceding two goals in the second game and one in the first game of the day, neither particularly well-defended, highlights where the current concerns lie.
With only one senior centre-back starting across both games, it’s hardly surprising that the backline looked a little makeshift and lacked cohesion at times with Nallo and Konate paired up together. The first equaliser from Sancet was a well-taken finish, but it came from a spell where Liverpool allowed Bilbao too much time in central areas. The second goal — an unfortunate ricochet off Gakpo’s face from a near-post header — was the type of soft set-piece concession that has cost the Reds in the past.
Arne Slot’s side are clearly a work in progress defensively, and while much of the attention has gone to the exciting new arrivals up front, bolstering the defensive structure will be just as important heading into the season. That said, there was still plenty to enjoy — particularly in the first half where the high press, energy, and combinations going forward were highly encouraging. But if Liverpool want to seriously compete, balance at both ends of the pitch will be essential.
That’s a wrap for pre-season
A summer that began at Preston, took them across Asia with stops in Hong Kong and Japan, and ended under the lights at Anfield. Across the fixtures, Arne Slot’s side showed promising signs of progress — sharper pressing, fluid attacking combinations, and key contributions from new signings.
While defensive concerns remain — particularly with limited senior centre-back involvement — the overall tone of pre-season has been positive. There’s clear intent in how Slot wants his team to play, and plenty for fans to be excited about heading into the new campaign.
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