Rio Ngumoha lights up New York as Liverpool edge Wrexham in Iraola’s winning start

Rio Ngumoha stepped into the spotlight at Yankee Stadium as his late strike secured Liverpool’s second consecutive pre-season victory under new head coach Andoni Iraola, with the teenager delivering the decisive moment in a 1-0 win over Wrexham.

The 17-year-old forward struck in the 75th minute, reacting quickest from close range to send a largely Liverpool-supporting crowd of more than 42,000 into celebration at the iconic New York venue.

Ngumoha’s goal proved the difference in a tightly contested encounter against the League One side, who arrived in the United States full of confidence after impressive pre-season victories over Manchester United and Leeds.

The result continued Iraola’s perfect start since taking charge at Anfield following the departure of Arne Slot. The former Bournemouth manager began his Liverpool tenure with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Sunderland in Nashville before following it up with another positive performance in New York.

Ngumoha grabs his opportunity on big stage

With several established stars unavailable, Liverpool’s younger players were given an opportunity to make an impression, and Ngumoha responded with a match-winning contribution.

The forward showed sharp instincts inside the penalty area, converting from close range to break the deadlock and underline his growing reputation as one of the club’s brightest young talents.

The goal capped a memorable night for the teenager, who produced the kind of decisive moment that can accelerate his progress under a new coaching regime.

Liverpool had to work hard for the victory, with Wrexham proving difficult opponents throughout the contest. Phil Parkinson’s side, revitalised in recent years under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, matched Liverpool’s intensity and created moments of danger but could not find a breakthrough.

Iraola waits on key players ahead of Leeds clash

Liverpool were without several important players, including defender Joe Gomez, who missed the match after picking up an injury during the win over Sunderland.

New arrivals Jeremy Jacquet and other World Cup participants Ryan Gravenberch, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak were also unavailable for selection.

Iraola revealed before the game that Gravenberch, Wirtz and Isak could return for Liverpool’s final fixture of their United States tour against Leeds at Chicago’s Soldier Field on Sunday.

The upcoming match will provide another opportunity for Iraola to assess his squad ahead of the new season, with Liverpool continuing their preparations under a new era.