Florian Wirtz Nets First Goal for Liverpool in Friendly Win Over Yokohama F. Marinos

Liverpool’s pre-season tour in Japan saw a promising display of attacking talent, as the Reds defeated Yokohama F. Marinos 3-1 on Wednesday. The highlight of the night was Florian Wirtz scoring his first goal for the club, marking a strong start to his Liverpool journey.

Over 65,000 fans watched as the German international equalised with a sharp right-foot finish inside the box, after Asahi Uenaka had given Yokohama the lead in the 55th minute. Wirtz, who joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen in a high-profile transfer, expressed his excitement, stating, “I am really happy that I could score my first goal. I hope there are more to come.”

New Faces Impress in Japan

The match also featured the debut of Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool’s recent signing from Eintracht Frankfurt. The French forward joined the Premier League champions in a £69 million deal, and although he didn’t score, he showed flashes of his potential.

Teenagers Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha added to the scoreline with well-taken goals, securing the comeback victory. Nyoni connected with a cross from Jeremie Frimpong, while Ngumoha carried the ball from the halfway line before finishing with precision from outside the area.

Arne Slot’s Mixed Feelings

Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised the result but acknowledged areas for improvement. “It could be with a tough training camp and it could be with the heat circumstances. But that’s something we definitely have to improve,” said the Dutch coach.

The match was played under emotional circumstances, following a tribute to Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident earlier this month.

Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent, having returned to Brazil for personal reasons, as confirmed by the club.

Meanwhile, Liverpool also announced the transfer of Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich, signaling more shifts in the squad ahead of the new season.