Liverpool wrapped up their pre-season tour of the Far East in style with a 3-1 comeback victory over Yokohama F. Marinos at the Nissan Stadium on earlier today
Despite a sluggish start that saw them fall behind early in the second half to a composed finish by Asahi Uenaka, the Premier League champions rallied through new signing Florian Wirtz and two exciting teenagers ; Nyoni and 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha who sealed the win with eye-catching goals.
Wirtz, making just his second appearance since his high-profile summer switch, was at the heart of Liverpool’s attack. The German playmaker capped a vibrant display with a clinical close-range finish in the 62nd minute to draw the Reds level, moments before being replaced by Ngumoha.
He was later named Man of the Match and received a ¥1 million cheque (around £5,000)
Ngumoha’s entrance shifted the game. The teenager dazzled with fearless dribbling and capped his night with a brilliant solo effort in the 87th minute ; his second goal of the tour
Earlier, Nyoni had fired Liverpool ahead in the 78th minute, stretching to meet a sublime cross from Jeremie Frimpong
With two wins and one loss on their Asia tour, Liverpool now turn their attention to a double-header against Athletic Bilbao before taking on Manchester City in the Community Shield.
As for the youngsters, all eyes will be on whether talents like Ngumoha and Nyoni can break into the senior setup for the season ahead.
