Match Report: Florian Wirtz Scores First Liverpool Goal in Victory Over Yokohama FM | OneFootball

Wirtz Scores First Goal as Liverpool Overcome Yokohama FM in Japan Finale

Liverpool rounded off their pre-season tour of Asia with a 3-1 win over Yokohama FM, offering glimpses of what Arne Slot’s new-look side might evolve into, while Florian Wirtz grabbed the headlines with his first goal in red.

This fixture, played at a humid Nissan Stadium, came just days after a sobering 4-2 loss to AC Milan, a result that had cast some doubt over Liverpool’s early preparations. Facing a struggling Yokohama outfit, who sit precariously near the foot of the J1 League having won just five of their 24 matches, the pressure was firmly on the Premier League champions to finish their tour with a measure of authority.

Wirtz Opens Liverpool Account in Second-Half Rally

Yokohama FM threatened to spoil the script when Asahi Uenaka put the hosts ahead midway through the second half. Capitalising on a sweeping move initiated by Ren Kato, Uenaka coolly finished low past Giorgi Mamardashvili, punishing Liverpool for their defensive hesitancy.

That goal sparked Liverpool into action. Within minutes, Curtis Jones intercepted high up the pitch and released Mohamed Salah, whose shot was blocked only for Wirtz to pounce and convert the rebound. The German attacking midfielder’s finish marked his first goal for the club since joining earlier this summer and signalled a shift in momentum.

Trey Nyoni followed shortly after, stretching to meet a pinpoint cross from Jeremie Frimpong and turning it in with confidence..

Ngumoah Steals Spotlight Late On

Rio Ngumoah, only 16 but already making waves in the academy, came off the bench and added Liverpool’s third in emphatic fashion. Driving through the heart of Yokohama’s midfield, he finished from the edge of the area with aplomb, underlining both his technical ability and composure under pressure.

His energetic cameo will not have gone unnoticed by Arne Slot, who is keen to blend experienced names with the next generation as he stamps his identity on the team.

Ekitike Debuts With Promise

Hugo Ekitike may not have found the net on debut, but there was plenty to admire in his first-half display. He linked intelligently with Salah and Cody Gakpo, was denied by a smart save from Park Il-gyu and attempted an audacious backheel that nearly paid off. His sharp movement and comfort in possession hint at a forward who could develop into a key option this season.

Salah, meanwhile, was a constant menace on the right flank, creating several chances and dictating the tempo in the final third. Despite a few missed opportunities from his teammates, his involvement was central to everything Liverpool did well going forward.

Slot Ends Tour With Encouraging Signs

After the AC Milan setback, Slot will be pleased with how his side responded. There are still areas to refine, especially in defensive transitions, but the depth on show and the emergence of talents like Wirtz, Nyoni and Ngumoah give cause for optimism.

Liverpool will now return to Merseyside for a home double-header against Athletic Club, with preparations continuing ahead of their Premier League title defence.