Match Recap: Club Friendlies 2025 - Athletic Bilbao vs Liverpool: teen sensation Ngumoha shines as Reds triumph over Los Leones 4-1
Liverpool Defeat Athletic Bilbao 4-1 in Pre-Season Friendly at Anfield
Liverpool FC secured a convincing victory over Athletic Bilbao in a pre-season friendly match held at Anfield on August 4, 2025. The Reds emerged triumphant with a scoreline of 4-1, showcasing their attacking prowess and building momentum in their pre-season preparations.
The match started on a high note for Liverpool, with 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha scoring the opening goal just two minutes into the game. His thunderous strike set the tone for the rest of the match, leaving the Athletic Bilbao defence struggling to contain Liverpool's offensive onslaught.
In the 5th minute, Darwin Núñez added to Liverpool's lead, scoring a header from a back post cross, assisted by Ngumoha. The goal marked Núñez's second for the Reds in the pre-season campaign.
As the first half progressed, Liverpool continued to dominate, with Armin Pecsi replacing Caoimhin Kelleher in goal for the Reds. The score remained 2-0 in Liverpool's favour until the 40th minute, when Alex Padilla scored an own goal for Athletic Bilbao.
Despite the setback, Athletic Bilbao could not mount a serious comeback. In the 58th minute, Harvey Elliott scored Liverpool's fourth goal, assisted by Darwin Núñez. Gorka Guruzeta scored the only goal for Athletic Bilbao in the 76th minute, but it was too little too late for the Basque club.
The match was a part of a double-header between Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, with Liverpool also winning the second friendly on the same day. The Reds' victory will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they continue their pre-season preparations.
The match was live-streamed on All Reds Video via the Liverpool website and LFCTV, providing fans with an opportunity to watch the action unfold from the comfort of their homes. The second friendly match between Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao is scheduled to start later tonight at 12:30 am IST.
In other news, Tsimikas committed a foul on Berenguer, leading to an Athletic Bilbao set-piece opportunity, but the shot failed to clear the wall. Meanwhile, Rio Ngumoha was cautioned for a foul on Andoni Gorosabel.
The starting XIs for both teams were announced prior to the match, with Liverpool fielding a strong lineup. The match took place at Anfield, with Liverpool demonstrating their dominance throughout the game.
In summary, Liverpool defeated Athletic Bilbao 4-1 in the pre-season friendly, with Ngumoha, Núñez, Doak, and Elliott scoring for the Reds. The victory will undoubtedly boost Liverpool's confidence as they continue their pre-season preparations.
[1] Liverpool FC Official Website
[2] Liverpool Echo
Fans of Liverpool FC were treated to an impressive performance as they defeated Athletic Bilbao 4-1 in a pre-season friendly, with the team showcasing their football prowess. Darwin Núñez and Rio Ngumoha, in particular, shone, scoring two out of the four goals.
