Liverpool takes lead against Como as Gakpo scores in pre-season friendly

Liverpool’s pre-season campaign reached its final act on August 16, with Cody Gakpo firing the Reds ahead against Italian Serie A outfit Como 1907 in what marked the first-ever competitive meeting between the two clubs. The friendly double-header at Anfield served as a last dress rehearsal before the 2026/27 Premier League season kicks off.

A new chapter at Anfield

Andoni Iraola took charge of Liverpool’s preparations with a double-header format against Como, one match played behind closed doors and the other staged in front of the Anfield faithful with a kickoff around 6pm BST. The setup allowed Iraola to rotate his squad, giving both established names and newer arrivals meaningful minutes before the real action begins.

Gakpo’s contribution was the standout moment across both fixtures. The Dutch forward, who joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in early 2023, showed sharp finishing to open the scoring. His goal became the central talking point of the day, with fan-shared highlights circulating widely across social media.

Como’s Serie A ambitions under Fàbregas

On the other side of the pitch, Como 1907 arrived at Anfield managed by Cesc Fàbregas, the former Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea midfielder. Some reports from the day indicated a goalless draw in one of the two matches, suggesting Como’s defensive structure held up reasonably well in at least one fixture.

What the Gakpo goal means for Liverpool’s season

Gakpo’s versatility, his ability to play across the front line and contribute both goals and assists, makes him a natural fit for a manager who values fluid, pressing-heavy football. His output since joining from PSV in 2023 suggests a player entering his prime years at exactly the right time for a club in transition.

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