Liverpool players celebrate with Hugo Ekitike after scoring a goalplaceholder image
Liverpool players celebrate with Hugo Ekitike after scoring a goal | Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Hugo Ekitike wowed with a major milestone in his career for France on Thursday
Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike snatched the headlines last night thanks to his superb goal for France, who have secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
The Reds striker was named on the bench by Didier Deschamps, along with club teammate Ibrahima Konate. Ekitike was given the nod in the 67th minute as he replaced Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola.
France were leading by just one goal when Ekitike came on, following a Kylian Mbappe penalty. Former Liverpool transfer target Michael Olise doubled the scoreline in the 76th minute, followed by another goal from captain Mbappe.
Ekitike struck late on, with just two minutes of regular time left to play. The 23-year-old burst forwards with the ball inside his own half, powered away from three Ukraine players and slotted the ball to Mbappe as a defender closed in. The Real Madrid star then delivered the ball back to Ekitike, who had moved into the vacant space to bury his shot confidently between the goalkeeper’s legs.
French media responds to Hugo Ekitike goal vs Ukraine
Ekitike is up for debate as Liverpool’s best signing of the summer, thanks to his immediate impact on the team. His form has now carried onto the international stage, opening his scoring portfolio for France.
Despite being a big hit at Anfield, fans of Les Bleus may not be as familiar with his talent, having made just a handful of appearances for his country so far.
However, the French media have been sold on his performance. Foot Mercato described Ekitike as the ‘new darling’ of the country, who ‘truly captivated’ those at Parc des Princes.
“His finish straight down the middle for the fourth goal, following a perfectly executed one-two with Kylian Mbappe, confirmed what we had seen from his very first touches: confidence, directness, and a goal-scoring instinct just waiting to blossom.”
“A perfect substitute. He was full of energy for the last 24 minutes. In that time, he took four shots and scored his first-ever goal for France,” the outlet analysed.
Will Hugo Ekitike start vs Nottingham Forest?
With Ekitike impressing for both club and country, fans are eager to see him secure his place as a regular starter for Liverpool. However, Arne Slot is still figuring out a system that features both the Frenchman and record signing Alexander Isak.
Isak was recently sidelined with a groin injury but has been called up to represent Sweden. Manager Graham Potter has confirmed the striker is ‘doing well’ and has ‘no problems’ ahead of their match against Switzerland on Saturday.
Isak was named on the bench against Manchester City, so whether he earns a place in the starting lineup against Nottingham Forest after the break remains to be seen. Slot must first assess all players who return from international duty and ensure no new injury setbacks have been sustained.
Continue Reading