Japan defender Endo Wataru provides crucial assist as Liverpool rallies to late victory over Bournemouth in Premier League opener

By Emmanuel Akyereko
(Managing Editor)

Japan international defender Endo Wataru climbed off the substitute bench to provide a crucial assist for Mohammed Salah to cement the victory for Liverpool needed last-gasp goals from Federico Chiesa and Salah to record a 4-2 triumph over Bournemouth in the 2025/26 Premier League opener at the Anfield on Friday night.

The 32-year-old took the place of Dutch-born Ghanaian right-back Jeremie Frimpong on the hour mark and ended up setting up a goal for the Egyptian on the 94th minute.

Endo delivered a long pass down the left to Salah who cut into the box, made enough space for himself before unleashing a shot, and lashed a low shot into the bottom right.

The Reds took a 1-0 lead in the first-half from Hugo Ekitike before Cody Gakpo increased the tally 4 minutes after the interval.

However, Ghana international Antoine Semenyo scored twice in the 64th and 76th minutes to level the scoring for the visitors. Meanwhile late goals from Chiesa and Salah turned the tables for the title-holders.

Endo captained Liverpool on the Japanese home soil during a 3-1 pre-season triumph over Yokohama Marinos.