16yo forward of Nigerian descent shines for Liverpool in 3-1 win over Preston North End

England U17 international Rio Ngumoha delivered a lively performance as Liverpool secured a 3–1 victory over EFL Championship side Preston North End in a pre-season friendly at Deepdale on Sunday afternoon.

The 16-year-old forward of Nigerian descent, who joined Liverpool from Chelsea last summer, was handed a start by manager Arne Slot—his first since making his senior debut for the Reds in January 2025.

Ngumoha made an early impact, bursting down the left in the fourth minute to deliver a dangerous ball into the path of Dominik Szoboszlai, though Preston managed to clear the danger.

Thirteen minutes later, he created Liverpool's first real opening by jinking into the box and seeing his deflected effort roll behind for a corner.

The highly rated winger played a key role in the build-up to the opening goal in the 33rd minute.

After gliding into the area, Ngumoha helped ignite a flowing move that saw Federico Chiesa square to Szoboszlai, whose deft touch found Conor Bradley for a routine finish.

Darwin Núñez doubled Liverpool’s lead shortly after the restart, before Liam Lindsay pulled one back for the hosts in the 83rd minute.

Cody Gakpo then converted from the spot to restore the Premier League club's two-goal advantage.

Ngumoha was withdrawn at half-time, while Preston's summer signing Odel Offiah featured in the second half.

Liverpool are currently in discussions with Ngumoha and his representatives over a first professional contract, with the former Chelsea youngster set to turn 17 next month.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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