Prior to both fixtures, an emotional tribute was held in memory of former Liverpool winger Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who passed away in a tragic accident in July. The stadium observed a moment's silence and fans joined in a chorus of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” in the 20th minute. A wreath-laying by Athletic officials and Liverpool representatives added to the touching ceremony. Liverpool have subsequently retired Jota’s squad number across all club levels as a mark of respect.
In the first match, 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha opened the scoring in the 2nd minute with a stunning solo goal, followed by an assist to Darwin Núñez just three minutes later. Liverpool led 2–0 inside five minutes. Ben Doak slotted home another before half-time, and Harvey Elliott added a fourth in the 58th minute. Gorka Guruzeta reduced the deficit with a consolation goal late in the first half for Athletic Club. Liverpool fielded a heavily rotated line-up including Alexis Mac Allister, Andy Robertson wearing the captain’s armband, Harvey Elliott, Royce Tsimikas, Curtis Jones, Ben Doak, Luca Stephenson, and Ngumoha.
In the second match, manager Arne Slot opted for a near-first-choice team. Mohamed Salah initiated the scoring in the 14th minute, assisted by new signing Hugo Ekitike on his Anfield debut. Athletic equalized through a header by Oihan Sancet, with Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo later turning an opponent's header into his own net to level the game again. Gakpo redeemed himself with two more goals before full-time, sealing a 3–2 victory for Liverpool. Salah missed a penalty that would have extended the lead—a rare miscue quickly overshadowed by the result.
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