“You Want to Show What You Can Do” – Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha on Liverpool’s Victory Over Yokohama FM | OneFootball

Young Stars Shine Bright as Liverpool Wrap Up Pre-Season in Japan

Liverpool’s final match on their Asian tour offered more than just a satisfying win. It marked a pivotal moment for two of the club’s brightest young talents, Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha, who stepped up under the lights of Yokohama to deliver a convincing 3-1 comeback victory over Yokohama F. Marinos.

It wasn’t just about goals. It was about presence, composure and the kind of performance that sends a message. With first-team opportunities opening up under Arne Slot, who recently led the club to a Premier League title in his debut season, both Nyoni and Ngumoha delivered exactly what the moment required.

Impact off the Bench

Rio Ngumoha, still just a teenager, spoke with a maturity beyond his years after the match.

“It was a very big night tonight. I feel like coming off the bench to make an impact was really good. It was obviously nice to get a goal today but that’s just the first of many,” said Ngumoha, whose goal gave Liverpool the lead after Florian Wirtz equalised.

He also highlighted his growing connection with Andy Robertson, saying, “Robbo has really helped me a lot. He’s so experienced and one of the best left-backs in the world. I feel like having him behind me, I can’t really ask for anything more.”

Photo: IMAGO

The goal itself came from a sharp moment of awareness. “I think they lost the ball and Robbo played it to me and just in my mind I was thinking, ‘Can I score?’ I had a chance last time but I was just happy to score.”

Ngumoha’s humility came through when asked about support from home. “There probably will be [messages] from my brother. He’s the biggest person in my life; him and my mum. I know he’s definitely buzzing.”

Learning While Leading

Trey Nyoni, already catching attention with his intelligence on the pitch, echoed his teammate’s joy while underlining the importance of the moment.

“Yeah, definitely. It’s just the type of goal as well – it was nice. Like Rio said, coming off the bench you obviously want to show what you can do,” Nyoni said.

He described his goal with clarity. “Rio had the ball and he’s given it to me. In the Academy we’ve always tried to develop a relationship on the pitch… As soon as I saw Jeremie, I know he likes to go down the line, so I just made sure I was inside the box and I just finished.”

It’s that balance of instinct and understanding that sets Nyoni apart. “It’s just about staying focused, directing it to where it needs to be.”

Roots and Responsibility

Both players were quick to credit the support structure around them, particularly the Liverpool Academy. “Everyone in the Academy has helped us develop and become better people as well. I think that’s the most important thing – becoming a better person and staying grounded,” said Nyoni.

Their words carried the weight of potential, not hype. Liverpool may have ended their tour with a win, but with talents like Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni stepping into the spotlight, the real victory may be what’s coming next.