Florian Wirtz netted his first Liverpool goal in a 2-1 win over Wolves, a match marked by emotional tributes to the late Diogo Jota
FLORIAN Wirtz scored his first goal for Liverpool in a 2-1 Premier League win over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield. The match was marked by emotional tributes to former player Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident in July.
Jota’s two children led the teams out as mascots, with his wife watching from the sidelines. Fans from both clubs sang chants in his name during the 18th and 20th minutes, referencing his old shirt numbers.
“After the tragedy happened until now, I have seen so many special moments,” said Liverpool manager Arne Slot. He praised the respect shown by all fans for Jota and his brother.
On the pitch, Ryan Gravenberch opened the scoring for Liverpool by slamming in Jeremie Frimpong’s cross. Wirtz then doubled the lead just before half-time, prodding home Hugo Ekitike’s pass for his first Reds goal.
The 22-year-old German international joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported £100 million. “I think today he showed much more than just the goal he scored,” added Slot about Wirtz’s performance.
Wolves, who are bottom of the league, pulled a goal back early in the second half through Santiago Bueno. Liverpool held on despite late pressure, with Conor Bradley making a crucial tackle to deny an equaliser.
The win moves Liverpool into the Premier League’s top four. Wolves remain rooted to the bottom with just two points from 19 games.
