The game, filled with emotion after Liverpool’s heartfelt tribute to the late Diogo Jota, was overshadowed by a controversial VAR decision that denied the Reds a possible penalty and red card—sparking anger among fans and pundits alike.
The night’s brightest moment came in the 40th minute, when Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool’s 23-year-old summer signing from Eintracht Frankfurt, marked his Anfield debut with a stunning solo goal.
After receiving a pinpoint pass from Alexis Mac Allister near Bournemouth’s half, Ekitike danced past defenders Milos Kerkez, Marcos Senesi, and Illia Zabarnyi with dazzling footwork, clever feints, and blistering pace before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner past goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic.
Anfield erupted, and Ekitike honored Jota with a heartfelt celebration—pointing skyward and holding up a “Jota 20” shirt. The Premier League’s official X account shared the moment, writing: “Hugo Ekitike puts Liverpool in front with his first Premier League goal! He collects Alexis Mac Allister’s pass and coolly finishes past Djordje Petrovic. And dedicates his celebration to Diogo Jota ❤️.”
But in the 63rd minute, controversy struck. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s cross struck the outstretched arm of Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, appearing to block a goal-bound shot from Mohamed Salah.
Replays shown on Sky Sports and widely circulated online revealed Kerkez’s arm extended in an unnatural position, making clear contact with the ball and stopping Liverpool’s attack.
Virgil van Dijk led furious appeals for a penalty, with players also signaling for a red card for denying a clear goal-scoring chance. Referee Anthony Taylor waved play on, and VAR official Paul Tierney upheld the decision after a quick review, ruling the handball accidental and the arm’s position natural.
The Premier League’s Match Centre later posted: “VAR checked and confirmed no penalty—arm in natural position, contact deemed accidental.”
The explanation did little to calm the uproar, leaving the sense that a pivotal moment had gone against Liverpool on an otherwise emotionally charged night.
