Liverpool defeated Eintracht Frankfurt 5-1 in the third round of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League, thanks to goals from Ekitik, Van Dijk, Konate, Gakpo, and Soboslai. Liverpool striker Ekitik expressed his gratitude for the lessons and values he learned during his time at Frankfurt, saying it was a special feeling to return to a familiar place and score.

In the 26th minute, Gotze passed the ball from outside the penalty area, and Christensen scored with a low shot, helping Frankfurt take the lead 1-0. In the 35th minute, Robertson won the ball and passed it to Ekitik, who scored all the way into the penalty area with a push shot, helping Liverpool equalize the score at 1-1.

In the 39th minute, Gakpo took a corner kick, and Van Dijk jumped up to head the ball into the goal, helping Liverpool to overtake 2-1. In the 44th minute, Soboslai assisted Konate with a corner kick to help Liverpool continue to lead Frankfurt 3-1.

In the 66th minute of the second half, Wirtz received a through ball from Soboslai and passed it to Gakpo, who pushed the ball into the goal, helping Liverpool extend their lead to 4-1. In the 70th minute, Wirtz passed the ball to Soboslai, who was outside the penalty area, and scored with a long shot.

In the end, Liverpool beat Frankfurt 5-1 away and successfully returned to the winning track.

The 23-year-old Ekitik transferred to Liverpool from Frankfurt in July this year. Ekitik helped Frankfurt qualify for the Champions League with his outstanding performance in the Bundesliga last season.

Talking about the feeling of scoring in this place, Ekitik shared, "It's a great feeling and this is a very special game for me. Coming back here, I would say it's like coming home. I know everyone here. This game is very special to me. Winning is of course important, but I can also score my first goal in the Champions League. I'm really happy."

"I have great respect for Eintracht Frankfurt. They made me who I am today. If I hadn't come to Frankfurt, I wouldn't be where I am today. I came back this time just to show my respect. I am grateful for everything they gave me. I will always remember what I learned there and the values they passed on to me."

In addition, Ekitik has contributed 3 goals and 1 assist to Liverpool in the Premier League so far this season, and his performance is excellent.

Ekitik also said, "I think a lot of it is because I feel good here. I have very good teammates and a good coaching staff. I also really enjoy life here."

"I just hope I can keep going because consistency is extremely important in football. I feel good now and everyone is helping me. I'm calm and just focused on doing my job well."