16yo forward of Nigerian descent scores sublime goal for Liverpool in 3-1 win v Yokohama F. Marinos

Liverpool wrapped up their pre-season tour of Asia in style with a 3-1 victory over Yokohama F. Marinos on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the Nissan Stadium in Japan. 

The J.League World Challenge fixture was marked by a standout moment from 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who capped his appearance in the game with a breathtaking solo goal.

The match began with Yokohama showing resilience, and they took a shock lead in the 55th minute through Asahi Uenaka, who pounced on a defensive lapse. 

But Liverpool responded swiftly. In the 62nd minute, Florian Wirtz — the club’s record signing — levelled with a thunderous finish following a swift counter-attack initiated by Curtis Jones.

Just five minutes later, another teenager, 18-year-old Trey Nyoni, found the net with his first touch, turning home a fine cross from Jeremie Frimpong to give Liverpool the lead.

The game's most memorable moment came in the 87th minute, when Ngumoha dazzled with a sensational goal.

Cutting in from the left, the academy winger dribbled past a defender with ease and curled a precise shot into the bottom corner. 

The goal drew a raucous response from the crowd and was widely hailed as a glimpse into the youngster’s bright future.

Manager Arne Slot fielded a mix of established stars and emerging talents. 

Newcomers Hugo Ekitike and Wirtz also impressed, while the match went ahead safely despite earlier tsunami warnings following an earthquake near Russia.

With the win, Liverpool build confidence heading into their Community Shield showdown against Crystal Palace.

Ngumoha’s performance has fans and pundits alike excited about what’s to come for the teenager at Anfield.

Wale Adejumo

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